While considering a petition seeking direction to the Kerala Sports Council to take an appropriate decision for financing the medical requisites of a handball player coming from a disadvantaged society, the Kerala High Court held that participation in most of the disciplines is extremely expensive, which many of the brilliant girls and boys may not be able to do, unless they are assured the support of the community; and it is imperative at these times, when the players from our State are faring better than ever before, in National competitions and even in international fetes.

Indubitably, therefore, the support of the Government and the Sports Council for the petitioner in the present case is inviolable and totally necessary, added the Court.

A Single Judge Bench of Justice Devan Ramchandran observed that “I also direct the second respondent - Secretary of the Government, to ensure that the petitioner is given all possible continuous support until she recovers from her predicament, so that the promise of a brilliant handball player is not lost to our State, solely because her family is not in a position to support her fiscally”.

Advocate Mahesh V. Ramakrishnan appeared for the Petitioner, whereas Advocate Sunil K. Kuriakose appeared for the Respondent.

The petitioner, who is a young professional handball player, was injured during a match in the 44th Junior Girls National Handball Championship. Belonging to a disadvantaged section of the society with her father being a taxi driver by profession, the petitioner claimed that she is incapacitated from undergoing necessary medical procedures, including reconstructive surgeries, as has been recommended through Medical Report. Since it is impossible for the father to continue to finance her treatment, the petitioner preferred a representation before the Kerala Sports Council (sixth respondent), seeking their assistance to complete her medical requirements, failing which, her future as a handball player would be imperiled. Accordingly, she approached the High Court seeking direction to the Council to take an apposite decision thereon without any avoidable delay.

After considering the submission, the Bench emphasized that a vibrant Society cannot be comprised of merely persons in academic and service pursuits, and it requires athletes and sportsmen, inculcated with a robust sporting culture.

The Bench also clarified that such culture is possible, particularly to those who belong to the disadvantaged society, only if the Government and the community at large give them full support. The High Court therefore directed the Sports Council to immediately take up representation of the petitioner and decide after affording her an opportunity of being heard.

The High Court also directed the Council to provide for an appropriate assistance or medical support and make necessary arrangements under the aegis of competent hospitals for the petitioner to undergo medical procedures and to spring back to her sport with full strength and exuberance.

Cause Title: Prajila M. v. State of Kerala and Ors. [Neutral Citation: 2023/KER/68331]

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Kerala High CourtJustice Devan Ramachandran

Pankaj Bajpai