Madras High Court Questions Policy Limiting Physical Education Teachers in Schools
Court emphasizes the importance of physical education for children's holistic development, seeks government explanation on restrictive policy.
News Report:
In a landmark decision, the Madras High Court (Madurai Bench) has critically examined the Government's policy restricting the appointment of Physical Education Teachers only to schools with a minimum of 250 students. The judgment, delivered by Justice P.T. Asha, highlights the incongruity of this policy against the backdrop of increasing concerns about children's physical and mental health.
The court addressed the issue raised by the petitioner, The Secretary, S.R.P. Middle School, who challenged the policy as detrimental to children's overall development. The petitioner's counsel argued that the current syllabus mandates two periods of Physical and Health Education daily, pointing out the contradiction between the educational requirements and the policy.
Justice Asha expressed concern over the growing trend of sedentary lifestyles among children, exacerbated by the allure of online games, leading to a rise in child diabetes and depression. She emphasized the necessity of physical education in fostering active minds through active bodies, questioning the rationale behind the policy that potentially impedes children's holistic development.
The court has sought a detailed report from the Government and the Education Department, demanding an explanation for the policy and its implications for various types of schools, including government, aided, unaided, and corporation schools. This judicial inquiry is part of a broader nationwide discourse, as the Supreme Court is concurrently reviewing similar cases and has requested reports from multiple states, including Tamil Nadu.
The case is set to be revisited on October 10, 2025, by which time the petitioner is expected to present the relevant report submitted to the Supreme Court by the State. This judgment underscores the judiciary's role in scrutinizing educational policies that affect the well-being of future generations.
Bottom Line:
Policy restricting the appointment of Physical Education Teachers only in schools with a minimum of 250 students questioned by the Court as incongruous, highlighting the importance of physical education for the overall development of children
