The Madras High Court has allowed a local Madurai kabaddi tournament to be conducted in Sholavandan, Madurai district, but imposed strict conditions to ensure that the sporting event remains safe and free from political, communal and substance-related issues.
The order was passed by the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court, presided over by Justice L. Victoria Gowri. The decision came after Mukesh, a resident of Sholavandan, approached the court seeking permission and police protection for the tournament after local authorities initially refused approval.
The court has permitted the event at Madhaikalam in Sangankottai village on August 29 and 30.
Strict Timings for the Tournament
According to the court’s directions, the tournament can only be held between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM on both days.
The timing restriction forms an important part of the kabaddi tournament regulations issued by the court. Organizers will be responsible for ensuring that the competition does not continue beyond the permitted hours.
The event will also remain under police supervision throughout its duration.
No Alcohol or Narcotic Substances
The court has placed strong restrictions on substance use during the tournament. Organizers must ensure that neither participants nor spectators consume alcohol or narcotic substances at the venue.
The condition is intended to reduce the possibility of disorder and maintain a safe environment for players and spectators.
The court has also made it clear that people facing pending criminal cases cannot participate in the tournament.
Political and Communal Slogans Banned
A major part of the Madras High Court kabaddi order concerns political and communal activities.
Participants, organizers and spectators are prohibited from raising slogans or making speeches supporting or opposing political parties or political leaders. Similar restrictions apply to references involving caste, community and religion.
The court has also prohibited players and team officials from wearing jerseys or clothing carrying provocative statements or images involving political or religious leaders.
These restrictions are aimed at ensuring that the focus remains entirely on sport.
Restrictions on Songs and Banners
The court has also issued directions regarding the use of the venue’s sound system. Songs praising religious figures or those that could potentially create communal tension cannot be played during the tournament.
Organizers are also prohibited from displaying flex boards, banners or hoardings referring to particular castes, communities or political leaders in and around the venue.
These conditions form an important part of the wider Tamil Nadu kabaddi event regulations and are designed to prevent a local sporting competition from becoming a platform for social or political conflict.
Police Can Stop the Tournament
The local police have been given extensive powers to monitor the event. Officers can intervene immediately if any of the court’s conditions are violated.
Police can register FIRs against those responsible for violations and can also stop the tournament completely if public peace is threatened.
The decision allows the Madurai kabaddi tournament to go ahead while placing responsibility on organizers, players and spectators to maintain discipline.
The ruling highlights the importance of balancing sporting activities with public safety. Kabaddi has a strong following across Tamil Nadu, and local tournaments often attract large crowds. By establishing clear conditions, the court has allowed the event to proceed while making it clear that law and order must remain the priority.
The tournament can now take place on August 29 and 30, provided all the conditions laid down by the court are followed strictly.
