Kerala child rights panel opens case over school games safety lapses

The Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has registered a suo motu case over alleged safety and organisational lapses during the State School Swimming Championship in Thrissur. The action follows reports that a portion of a temporary roof erected for spectators at the Thrissur Aquatic Complex collapsed on Thursday evening amid heavy rain and strong winds. Some students and parents were injured.

The commission said it had taken cognisance of media reports about difficulties faced by students during the State School Games and the accident at the swimming venue. It observed that several reports pointed to serious lapses in arrangements for the sporting event and alleged negligence by the organisers. The commission also said teachers assigned responsibilities at the venue appeared not to have discharged their duties responsibly.

The panel has sought explanations from the Director of General Education, the District Police Chief, the Deputy Director of Education in Thrissur and the District Child Protection Officer. The intervention comes amid concerns about safety and basic facilities for students participating in the State School Games in Thrissur. The source material does not give details of the injuries, the number of people affected or any response from the officials asked to explain the arrangements.