Fresh scrutiny hits Kolkata football as four referees face IFA disciplinary action for umpiring a match before Lionel Messi’s event without clearance. The December 13 fixture at Salt Lake Stadium between Mohun Bagan and Diamond Harbour Legends violated protocols, drawing ire from the Indian Football Association.
Summoned for January 20, the officials must justify bypassing approvals from IFA or Calcutta Referees Association. Insiders hint at potential sanctions, underscoring the gravity of flouting rules in a spotlight event.
Recall the bedlam of Messi’s visit: Stadium overflowed with frenzied supporters. His 22-minute stint ended abruptly amid selfie-seeking crowds overwhelming barriers. Security crumbled under pressure.
Retaliation followed Messi’s exit. Enraged fans wrecked havoc—flinging bottles, upending seats, demolishing gates, storming the pitch. Damages extended to spectator areas and facilities.
Fallout included arrests, resignations, and inquiries. Event boss Satadru Dutta is in custody; Arup quit as sports minister; DGP Rajeev Kumar and others got reprimands.
This referee row amplifies ongoing investigations, highlighting systemic flaws in event management and governance. IFA’s ruling could reshape officiating standards, ensuring no repeats of such regulatory slips.