KOLKATA: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has made clear who she sees as the “villains of the piece” in the ongoing face-off that SC East Bengal is witnessing between the storied club’s legacy officials and new investors Shree Cement Limited (SCL).
Banerjee, who had played a key role in the tie-up of SCL with East Bengal in their last minute bid to play in Indin Super League last season, took a dig at the club management for being adamant in not signing the final agreement during a programme at the Netaji Indoor Stadium here Tuesday.
“Ektu chere khelun, ektu chere khelle ota hoe jabe (Allow some space. It will be alright then),” the combative chief minister said.
The club’s participation in India’s top tier league for the upcoming season has been put in jeopardy as the club’s executive members have refused to sign the final agreement with Shree Cement, claiming discrepancy in the initial term sheet.
The initial document was signed by both parties in the presence of Banerjee in September 2020, that paved the way for a dramatic entry of East Bengal into the ISL.
“Last time also I had interfered at the last moment as there was no other way after Mohun Bagan had tied up with ATK. Now also as per my information, they will be able to play in ISL. It’s about being flexible, and allowing some space (to SCL),” Banerjee said.
“I want the Bengal clubs to compete in the ISL, and play a proactive role in the development of Indian football.”
She said the “little differences” will be solved and soon the East Bengal fans will have their smiles back on their faces and the club will play in the ISL.
“Taking responsibility for five years is also not a joke. The investor has to spend close to Rs 50 crores (Rs 500 million). Last time we had convinced them to come and invest in the club.”
Banerjee’s assurances came less than a month after two groups of East Bengal supporters had clashed in the Maidan. One group had planned a protest against the club officials and demanded Banerjee’s intervention to end the logjam.
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