Sivankutty alleges planned attempts to disrupt school sports fest's closing ceremony

T'puram: General education minister V Sivankutty said on Tuesday that there was a deliberate attempt to disrupt the closing ceremony of the Kerala State Schools' Sports Meet in Kochi. He stated that the govt viewed such condemnable activities by a handful of people seriously.

"The festival was well organised. However, during the closing ceremony, a dispute over the best school title was raised by Thirunavaya Navamukunda School. It was assured that their complaint would be taken seriously, but efforts were still made to disrupt the event. Navamukunda and Mar Basil schools did not heed despite repeated requests," Sivankutty said.

According to him, there were attempts to interrupt cultural programmes and assault volunteers. "The actions of a few individuals tarnished the dignity and pride of the meet. The general education department strongly condemns the disruption attempts and will seriously investigate the matter," he said.

Disputes and confusions occur during competitions worldwide, and there are established methods to resolve them, including appeal committees and courts. The disrepute of disrupting the closing ceremony of the first school Olympics inaugurated by the CM fell on these two school authorities. At the event, which saw the participation of 24,000 athletes, 31 were from Thirunavaya Navamukunda School and 76 were from Mar Basil. The event was organised smoothly until the closing day. Those attempted to disrupt the event demanded that non-sports schools be considered while choosing schools with the highest points.

A total of 1,741 gold medals, as many silver medals, and 2,047 bronze medals were given away at the event. Cash prizes amounting to Rs 20 lakh were awarded. A total of 23,813 athletes — 12,737 boys and 11,076 girls — competed across 39 sports events.

Of these, 1,587 athletes took part in inclusive sports, showcasing the extent and dedication of our students. Initially, it was thought to hold such an Olympic model festival every four years. However, the great success of this festival and the experience of including inclusive sports have prompted the govt to hold it every year. "The next festival will be held in Thiruvananthapuram," he said.