Bombay High Court Recognizes Bodybuilding for Sports Quota in Government Jobs

Significant Ruling for Bodybuilding Enthusiasts

In a landmark decision, the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has mandated that bodybuilding be included in the 'Sports Quota' for government and semi-government employment opportunities. This ruling allows bodybuilding to qualify for the 5 percent reservation designated for sports.

The bench, consisting of Justice Mukulika Jawalkar and Justice Nandes Deshpande, issued this directive following a petition from Deepak Pawar.

Court's Observations and Directives

Four Weeks to Implement Changes

The Court criticized the previous exclusion of bodybuilding from the State Policy of 2016 as arbitrary and a breach of constitutional rights. It emphasized that bodybuilding is essentially a sub-discipline of gymnastics, thus qualifying for the sports quota. The government has been instructed to revise the Government Resolution (GR) from July 1, 2016, to include bodybuilding within four weeks.

Concerns Over Exclusion

During the proceedings, it was highlighted that bodybuilding was part of the 2005 policy but was later omitted. The Court deemed it unreasonable to limit eligibility to sports recognized in the Olympic, Asian, or Commonwealth Games. It also pointed out that the Central Government awards the 'Arjuna Award' to bodybuilders, affirming the sport's national recognition.

Impact of the Ruling

The Court's decision to annul the government circulars dated October 24, 2018, and March 21, 2023, is a significant victory for those pursuing careers in bodybuilding. For years, professionals in this field have advocated for inclusion in the sports quota, arguing that like other sports, bodybuilding deserves recognition to encourage aspiring athletes.