East Bengal-Mohun Bagan Fans Protest Outside Salt Lak Stadium, Demand Justice For Kolkata Rape Victim

Thousand of East Bengal and Mohun Bagan supporters on Sunday gathered outside the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata to protest and demand justice for RG Kar hospital rape and murder victim.

The Bidhannagar police commissionerate had already announced the cancellation of Sunday's Derby match between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan still fans gathered outside the stadium. To control and dismantle the crowd, police had to launch the baton stick attack on protesters and football fans.

A day ago, a senior police officer told the media that prohibitory orders under Section 163 of BNSS were enforced from 4 pm to midnight on Sunday.

This measure aimed to maintain peace, and five individuals were detained in connection with the situation. The officer highlighted that specific intelligence indicated attempts to incite violence during the match.

VIDEO | Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Supporters of Mohun Bagan and East Bengal football clubs detained as they protest outside Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium.

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Security Concerns

Plans by some organisations to protest at the stadium during the Derby match were uncovered. Social media posts suggested that supporters of both iconic clubs might join these protests. The officer stated, "We had specific information that some groups and organisations would attempt to create disturbance in the stadium."

The police anticipated a crowd of 62,000 to 63,000 people at the stadium. Considering public safety, they consulted with the Derby committee and decided to cancel the match. Some supporters gathered outside the stadium in the afternoon, waving flags and chanting slogans like "We want justice."

Prohibitory Orders

The police played two audio clips during a press conference, indicating plans by certain individuals to cause disturbances at the stadium. The officer noted that while peaceful protests are not an issue for Bidhannagar police, there is a risk of unruly elements mingling with peaceful protesters.

Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of BNSS were imposed around the stadium from 4 pm to midnight on Sunday. This step aimed to prevent any disorderly situations. Five persons have been detained, and efforts are ongoing to identify others who may incite violence.

The officer reiterated that maintaining safety and security for general football lovers was a priority. Therefore, they took necessary actions in consultation with relevant authorities to ensure no untoward incidents occurred during such a high-profile event.

In light of these developments, it is clear that ensuring public safety remains paramount for law enforcement agencies during large gatherings and events.