The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has ruled that an Iranian student enrolled at the University of Kerala has the legal right to access and use the swimming pool at the Kariavattom campus. The commission also directed the Sports and Youth Affairs Department to ensure that necessary facilities are provided to enable access for the student.
Background of the Complaint
The order was issued by commission chairperson Justice Alexander Thomas while considering a complaint filed by Sara Moosavi, a student and swimmer from Iran. In her petition, she alleged that she was denied access to the pool by the official in charge, who reportedly stated that only Indian citizens were permitted to use the facility. She also accused the official of making racially offensive remarks.
Commission's Directives
Taking note of the complaint, the commission directed that no staff member should interfere when the complainant uses the pool. It further emphasised that institutional facilities must not discriminate based on nationality and that students enrolled at the university are entitled to equal access. The commission also expressed concern over the response of local law enforcement authorities. It noted that officials, including the assistant commissioner and station house officer of Kazhakkoottam, failed to submit a report or appear before the commission despite being directed to do so. The city police commissioner has been instructed to seek explanations from the officers concerned and initiate appropriate legal action.
Response from Sports Department
Meanwhile, the director of the sports department informed the commission that there is no restriction preventing the student from using the swimming pool. The commission advised the complainant to submit a formal representation to the department, along with proof of her student status at the university, to facilitate access.
Investigation into Racial Abuse Allegations
The commission had earlier directed the district police chief to examine the complaint that the racial abuse allegations filed by the student at Kazhakkoottam police station were not properly investigated. The police have since completed the investigation in the case and submitted a final report before the Attingal court.
