New Delhi, August 20: The Supreme Court heard a public interest litigation (PIL) on Thursday, seeking to recognize the ‘Right to Sports’ as a fundamental right under Article 21A of the Constitution. Petitioner Dr. Kanishk Pandey urged the court not to reduce the significant constitutional issue of access to sports to a limited concept like ‘physical literacy.’
During the hearing, the court remarked, “This is a commendable demand. It is extremely important. In this digital age, children are increasingly distanced from playgrounds.”
The PIL filed by Dr. Pandey calls for constitutional recognition of sports, arguing that participation in sports is essential for the holistic development of children and citizens. It should not be confined to individual privileges, institutional preferences, or competitive excellence.
Following the filing of the petition, the Supreme Court appointed an ‘amicus curiae’ (friend of the court) to assist in the matter. A report was later presented to the court. However, the petitioner raised objections to key aspects of the report, particularly its focus on ‘physical literacy’ instead of the broader concept of ‘sports.’
Dr. Pandey emphasized that sports, physical education, and physical literacy are three distinct concepts and should not be conflated. He argued that introducing ‘physical literacy’ in place of ‘Right to Sports’ would alter the fundamental purpose and scope of the petition.
He further stated that sports should not be viewed solely through the lens of performance, medals, competition, and success.
According to the petition, sports have a significant social and developmental aspect. They contribute to physical and mental health, personality development, discipline, leadership, self-confidence, resilience, teamwork, and character building. Sports can also play a crucial role in alleviating stress, negativity, and social isolation while fostering strong communities and promoting social interaction, inclusion, and unity.
The petitioner asserted that sports can work together as a means for education, public health, youth development, community building, social development, and nation-building.
Dr. Pandey urged the court to thoroughly understand sports and examine its various aspects before reaching recommendations on such a significant constitutional matter.
He stated, “The aim of this PIL has never been merely to create champions or win medals. The scope of sports is much broader than excellence in competition. It enhances individuals, strengthens communities, and contributes to physical, mental, and social development. While physical literacy, physical education, and sports can complement each other, they cannot replace one another. Our humble request to the court is to understand sports in its full social, educational, and developmental context before determining its constitutional status.”
Dr. Pandey believes that as children drift away from playgrounds towards screens, recognizing access to sports has become even more crucial. He remarked, “At a time when children are moving away from playgrounds towards screens, acknowledging access to sports becomes even more vital. The true aim of the ‘Right to Sports’ is to ensure that the opportunity to play is not limited to a select few.”
This PIL aims to initiate a national dialogue to establish sports as a necessary element alongside education for the development of children and young citizens. The matter is currently under consideration by the Supreme Court.
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