In response to a query from MLA P A Mohammed Riyas in the Assembly, the minister noted that there were concerns regarding local clubs, residents’ associations, and community organizations potentially facing hefty licence fees to host public screenings of World Cup matches.
The state minister for sports and youth affairs mentioned that Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd owns the broadcast and live-streaming rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in India, while its sister platform, ZEE5, holds the digital streaming rights.
He further indicated that Eagles FC Kerala had secured screening rights in the state.
“The arrangement between the rights holders excludes the state government. Nonetheless, the government aims to ensure football fans are not hindered from organizing public screenings,” he remarked.
The minister clarified that the government differentiates between commercial screenings held by shopping malls and businesses, and those arranged by local clubs and community groups that do not charge an entry fee.
Upon discovering the issue, he noted that the sports department secretary was instructed to engage in discussions with the relevant stakeholders.
“The discussions have been fruitful, and the response from the rights holders has been promising. A decision is anticipated soon. Football fans should not be disheartened,” he added.
Chief Minister V D Satheesan remarked that the government is approaching the matter positively and that actions would be taken promptly to enable public screenings, contingent on necessary permissions.
P A Mohammed Riyas had previously raised concerns, alleging that local clubs, football fan groups, and community organizations, especially in rural areas, were being required to obtain licences and pay significant fees for screening World Cup matches.
He characterized this as a “corporate strategy” that would place a burden on ordinary football enthusiasts and called on the government to arrange an exemption for non-commercial screenings conducted by local community groups.
Kerala is widely recognized as one of India’s football hubs, with extensive public screenings of FIFA World Cup matches attracting thousands of fans throughout the state during each tournament.
