In an unprecedented show of unity, Kolkata’s football giants—Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Mohammedan Sporting—have set aside their historic rivalry. Their common cause? Demanding justice for a 31-year-old trainee postgraduate doctor who was brutally assaulted and murdered at RG Kar Hospital in the city. But their appeal doesn’t stop there. The three clubs have also come together to advocate for the restoration of Durand Cup matches in Kolkata.
Big 3’s demand to restore the Durand Cup in the City
The Durand Cup organizing committee recently cancelled the highly anticipated derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal due to ‘security concerns’ following widespread protests and rumours of massive fan demonstrations related to the tragic incident.
As per the revised quarterfinal fixtures, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal were awarded one point each, and their knockout matches are now scheduled to take place in Jamshedpur and Shillong, respectively. However, the Big-3 clubs hope to see the semifinals and final of the prestigious Durand Cup back in Kolkata, adhering to the original schedule.
During a joint press conference, the secretaries of the three clubs—Debasish Dutta (Mohun Bagan), Rupak Saha (East Bengal), and Ishtiaq Ahmed (Mohammedan Sporting)—expressed their solidarity. They urged fans to cooperate with the administration to ensure peaceful matches. Importantly, they emphasized that their collective fight for justice transcends political influence.
Will Durand Cup semi-final and final return to Kolkata after three city giants appeal to the organisers? @debasissen @Limca_Official#DurandCup2024 #EastBengal #MohunBagan #MohammedanSporting pic.twitter.com/hcIu9YowEp
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) August 21, 2024
In addition to justice, the clubs demand severe punishment for the culprits involved in the heinous crime. Their united stance underscores the significance of football as a force for social change and justice.
The derby may be in the past, but this historic moment of unity among Kolkata’s football giants speaks volumes about their commitment to both the game and the well-being of their community. As the city rallies behind them, the Big-3 clubs hope that the Durand Cup will once again grace the iconic Maidan grounds, echoing the spirit of resilience and solidarity that defines Kolkata’s football legacy.
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