Tamil Nadu May Ban School Sports Events Between 11am and 3.30pm After Class XII Student’s Death

The Tamil Nadu government is considering a ban on school sports competitions between 11am and 3.30pm following the death of a Class XII student during an inter-school sporting event in Vaniyambadi, Tirupattur district.

The issue was raised during Question Hour in the Tamil Nadu Assembly by AIADMK legislature party whip Agri S Krishnamurthy, who sought compensation for the family of Mukesh, a Class XII student of a government school who died after reportedly sustaining injuries during an inter-school sports competition.

Responding to the concern, Sports Minister Aadhav Arjuna described the student's death as unfortunate and deeply concerning. He said the Tamil Nadu government would work towards framing specific guidelines for sporting events organised by the School Education Department.

The minister said he would discuss the matter with the School Education Minister and explore the possibility of introducing a comprehensive policy to ensure the safety and well-being of students participating in outdoor sporting activities.

Highlighting the risks associated with children playing sports during periods of intense heat, Arjuna said prolonged exposure to high temperatures could result in serious health complications.

“Children playing under extreme heat could suffer serious health complications, including damage to internal organs. We need a separate plan to address this issue,” the minister said.

The government is now considering issuing a circular through the School Education Department that would prohibit schools from organising sports competitions between 11am and 3.30pm, when temperatures are generally at their highest.

The proposed measure is aimed at reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses and other serious health complications among students participating in outdoor events. If implemented, the guidelines could significantly change the way schools schedule inter-school competitions, athletics meets and other outdoor sporting activities.

“We are compelled to consider such a decision to ensure that incidents like the death of this student do not recur in the future,” Arjuna said.

The minister also indicated that the issue had been brought to the attention of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay. The government is expected to consider financial assistance for Mukesh’s family following further discussions.

The incident has renewed concerns over student safety during school sporting events, particularly as temperatures remain high in several parts of Tamil Nadu. The proposed restrictions could become part of broader safety guidelines designed to protect children from extreme heat and ensure that schools take adequate precautions while organising outdoor competitions.

The Tamil Nadu government's final decision on the proposed ban and the detailed guidelines for school sports events are expected after consultations with the concerned departments.