High Court: 'Physical growth is also important'; asks government to close schools without playgrounds

KOCHI: The High Court has ruled that playgrounds are mandatory in schools and strong action has been taken against schools that do not comply with KER rules. Justice PV Kunjikrishnan also directed the government to take measures, including closing schools that lack playgrounds.

The High Court made this decision while considering a petition related to the construction of a water tank in the playground of the Kollam Thevayur Government LP School. After the petition reached the High Court, the construction of the water tank was halted, rendering the plea irrelevant. In the order closing this petition, the High Court issued strict instructions regarding children's welfare. According to the High Court, playgrounds are required in schools under the KER Act and the Right to Education Act.

Furthermore, the court emphasized the importance of both physical and mental development for children, in addition to academic studies. Therefore, the court has issued strict instructions to take action against schools without playgrounds. The court also directed the government to issue guidelines on the size and preparation of playgrounds. The single bench instructed the government to take action in this regard within four months.