The much-awaited Kolkata Derby match between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, scheduled to take place on Sunday at the Salt Lake stadium, was cancelled due to serious safety concerns. The Bidhannagar police commissionerate made the decision after receiving intelligence reports suggesting that certain individuals and organizations planned to disrupt the event with protests related to the alleged rape and murder of a woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
According to a high-ranking official from the commissionerate, prohibitory orders were implemented under section 163 of BNSS, effective from 4 pm until midnight on Sunday. This measure aimed to maintain peace and prevent any disturbances. Five individuals were taken into custody in connection with these concerns.
Information indicated that several organizations intended to use the high-profile Derby as a platform to voice their protests against the alleged crime. Social media posts hinted at possible joint demonstrations by fans of the two iconic clubs concerning this matter.
The IPS officer, speaking to journalists, revealed precise intelligence that some troublemakers planned to instigate violence during the Derby match. “We had specific information that some groups and organizations would attempt to create disturbance in the stadium,” he stated, as quoted by PTI. He also mentioned that a capacity crowd of 62,000 to 63,000 was expected at the stadium. “Keeping in view the safety and security of general football lovers, we took up the matter with the Derby committee and decided to cancel today’s match,” he said.
In the afternoon, supporters from both clubs gathered in front of the stadium, waving their team flags and chanting slogans like “We want justice.” During a press conference, the police played two audio clips, claiming they revealed plans by certain individuals to cause disruptions at the stadium.
The officer further stated that the police had received information about potential protests by some organizations in front of the stadium on Sunday, following the cancellation of the Derby match. While the Bidhannagar police have no issue with peaceful protests, there is a concern that unruly elements could mix with the peaceful protesters and create disturbances. He added that five individuals were detained in connection with this, and efforts to identify others who might incite violence were ongoing. To prevent any disorderly situations, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS were imposed in and around the stadium from 4 pm until midnight on Sunday.
The cancellation of the Kolkata Derby match is a significant blow to football fans in the city. However, the police’s decision to prioritize safety and security amidst the sensitive situation is understandable. The focus now shifts towards ensuring peace and order in the wake of the alleged crime and the ongoing protests.
