The recent incident involving the supporters of three football clubs of Kolkata East Bengal, Mohun Bagan and Mohammedan Sporting have brought to light significant social issues in Kolkata, particularly surrounding the tragic rape and murder of a Lady doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. This event has not only sparked outrage among fans but also led to a unique moment of solidarity between the traditionally rival clubs.
Background of the incident
On August 9, 2024, a postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College was allegedly raped and brutally murdered while on duty. This horrific crime sent shockwaves through the community and ignited widespread protests demanding justice for the victim and better safety measures for women. The situation escalated when a mob vandalized parts of the hospital during a demonstration against the incident, highlighting the public’s anger and frustration over the safety of women in the city.
The protest
On August 18, 2024, a scheduled Durand Cup Kolkata derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal was cancelled due to security concerns, as police anticipated potential disturbances amid ongoing protests. In a rare display of unity, fans from all three clubs gathered outside the Salt Lake Stadium to protest against the crime and demand justice for the victim.
The protest witnessed fans displaying banners and chanting slogans such as “We want justice,” while wearing their respective club jerseys. Public figures, including actors joined the demonstration, further amplifying the call for justice. The gathering, however, was met with a heavy police presence, which led to tensions as some protestors were detained for defying prohibitory orders imposed in the area.
Police Response and Public Sentiment
The police justified their actions by citing intelligence reports indicating that certain groups might attempt to incite violence during the match. Consequently, they imposed prohibitory orders from 4 PM to midnight, which restricted gatherings in the vicinity. Despite the police’s efforts to disperse the crowd, many protestors regrouped and continued their demonstration, raising questions about the heavy police deployment and the cancellation of the match.
Mohan Bagan captain Shubhashis Bose along with his wife also participated at the protest.
Kalyan Chaubey, President of the All India Football Federation, criticized the authorities for their handling of the situation, arguing that adequate police presence could have ensured a peaceful match and allowed fans to express their grievances without fear of violence. He emphasized that football transcends divisions and that the community should be allowed to come together in support of justice.
Earlier in a statement Indian Army already issued an official statement about the cancellation of the Kolkata Derby.
“We regret to inform our esteemed fans and supporters that the much anticipated Derby match of the 133rd Durand Cup Group A fixture between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC scheduled at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Sunday, 18 August 2024 has been abandoded.
This has been done because of the inability of the state police to provide necessary security for the match due to other engagements.
Broader Implications
The Joint protest by East Bengal, Mohun Bagan abd Mohammedan supporters signifies a critical moment in Kolkata’s social landscape. It reflects a growing awareness and collective outrage over issues of violence against women, as well as a desire for community solidarity in the face of tragedy. The incident has prompted discussions about women’s safety in public spaces and the responsibilities of authorities in ensuring such safety.
Moreover, the protest has highlighted the role of sports as a unifying force in society, capable of bridging divides even among fierce rivals. The willingness of fans to come together for a common cause demonstrates the potential for collective action in addressing societal issues beyond the realm of sports.
The protesting fans were met by lathi charge by the police, which also detained several of those fans, amid slogans of “We want justice” from the protesters.
(Photo Courtesy: AIFF, X and Facebook)
