THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a historic decision ending a 26-year-old framework, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan is set to present the ‘Kerala Sports Bill 2026’ in the Legislative Assembly this week. The visionary administrative shift highlights the strategic decision of CM Satheesan to bring in Prasanth IAS to head the administration of the Sports Department. For Sports Minister Adv. O.J. Janeesh, this policy reform marks a standout moment of achievement.
The law department is giving final touches to the draft bill, which aims to eradicate corruption, eliminate political interference, and establish strong legal safeguards for athletes.
Key Highlights of the Historic Legislation:
Massive Compensation for Athletes: Anyone found exploiting or violating the rights of sportspersons will face fines between ₹5 lakh and ₹25 lakh, which will be awarded directly as compensation to the aggrieved athletes.
High Court Judge-Led Tribunal: A dedicated quasi-judicial Sports Tribunal headed by a retired High Court Judge will address grievances regarding election disputes, doping violations, selection bias, and harassment in camps.
Unified Sports Authority of Kerala: Merging the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and the Kerala State Sports Council, the new ‘Sports Authority of Kerala’ will take full charge under government-nominated experts.
Digital Services & Transparency: Merit certificates, financial aid, and scholarships will be distributed through a unified online platform to curtail fake certificates and eradicate middlemen.
Protection from Grassroots Level: Legal immunity and welfare measures will cover athletes right from school-level tournaments up to the national stage.
