Kerala HC directs the state to consider representation and include rugby as a state-level sports and games event

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The Kerala High Court recently directed the relevant authority of the state government to consider including rugby as an event in sports and games events for schools.

Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas was considering a petition by a student from Thiruvananthapuram who was aggrieved by the refusal of her representation by the director of general education to include rugby as an event. She pointed out that the Kerala State Rugby Association had also filed a representation in this matter. She argued that the sport was not included in the manual that governs the Kerala State School Athletic and Games Meet, even though it was included in the National School Games.

On 5 October 2026, the court ruled that the inclusion of rugby in state-level sporting events appeared necessary as it was included in the National School Games. The court believed that the state should decide on the matter as soon as possible, taking into account the date of the events and the administrative requirements that must be met to organize them. The authority concerned has been directed to issue appropriate orders within four weeks.

Published – 05 Oct 2026 21:42 IST