IFA Summons Four Referees Over Match Held During Lionel Messi Event In Kolkata

The Indian Football Association (IFA) has summoned four referees who officiated a football match at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on December 13. The match coincided with the much-anticipated appearance of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi.

The referees are facing scrutiny for allegedly officiating the match without prior approval from the competent authorities.

The IFA, which governs football in West Bengal, has directed the referees to appear before its internal disciplinary committee. They have been asked to explain why they conducted the match without mandatory permission from either the IFA or the Calcutta Referees’ Association (CRA).

Sources said disciplinary action could follow, depending on the outcome of the proceedings.

On December 13 last year, the Yuva Bharati Krirangan, popularly known as Salt Lake Stadium, was filled to capacity hours before Messi’s scheduled appearance.

Ahead of the event, a football match between Mohun Bagan and Diamond Harbour Legends was organised at the stadium. The match was officiated by the four referees now under scrutiny.

The allegation against them is that they failed to secure the requisite clearances from the IFA and the CRA before officiating the match. This amounts to a violation of established rules governing refereeing at high-profile events.

Chaos and Vandalism After Messi’s Exit

Soon after Messi arrived at the stadium, chaos erupted as spectators surged forward to take photographs, overwhelming security arrangements. Many later complained that they could not see Messi clearly, as he left the field within 22 minutes of his arrival.

Following his departure, vandalism broke out inside the stadium. Chairs and bottles were thrown onto the field, gates were damaged, and several spectators entered the pitch. Damage was also reported in the galleries and restrooms.

In response, the state government constituted an investigation committee to probe the incident.

Event organiser Satadru Dutta was arrested and is currently in judicial custody. Aroop resigned from his post as state Sports Minister. Senior IPS officers, including Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar, were also issued show-cause notices.

The IFA’s disciplinary committee is scheduled to meet on January 20, when the referees are expected to present their explanations.

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