KSCRPC objects to restricting sports and extra curricular activities for class X students

The Karnataka State Child Rights Protection Commission (KSCRPC) has objected to reduced sports, physical education, and extra curricular activities during school hours for class X students in many high schools across the State in view of the main exams to be held in March 2026.

K.T. Tippeswamy, a member of the commission, has written to the Commissioner of Department Public Instruction (DPI) in this regard requesting him to issue appropriate directions to officials concerned to make it mandatory to conduct sports and other extra curricular activities as per the department’s rules and school schedule, for class X students as well.

In his letter, Mr. Tippeswamy said that during his interactions with children in various high schools, he has observed that many class X students were not participating in the sports and other extra curricular activities.

“It is ironic that children’s extra curricular activities and sports are being restricted for the school to achieve good results. This also has a negative impact on children’s learning,” the letter stated.

“According to Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, sports and play is a right of children. Restricting it is a violation of the right of children. However, due to the misunderstanding of teachers and officials and lack of awareness of children’s rights, children are suffering,” it stated.

“At least four periods a week are dedicated to extra curricular activities, including sports and physical education. Play sessions are very important and will improve academics as well. If you teach continuously for eight hours a day, it will affect their learning. Such decisions are taken by the headmaster at the school level and puts a lot of pressure on the children,” he told The Hindu.