Durand Cup 2024 Derby Cancelled Owing to Security Concerns amid Protests over RG Kar Doctor Rape and Murder

The highly anticipated Durand Cup 2024 derby between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Emami East Bengal FC, scheduled for August 18 at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Stadium in Saltlake, Kolkata, has been cancelled due to security concerns. This decision comes amid ongoing protests related to the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old PGT doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. In response to the cancellation, fans and supporters of both teams have now called for a joint protest from the match venue, calling for justice for the victim.

The Kolkata Police have cited security concerns as the primary reason for the cancellation. With the city engulfed in protests over the alleged rape and murder of a PGT doctor at R G Kar Medical College, providing adequate security for the derby clash has been deemed a significant challenge. “This office has been informed by the Police that they are unable to provide security cover for the 133rd Indian Oil Durand Cup Group A fixture between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Emami East Bengal,” said the Durand Cup Organizing Committee in a statement.

In a meeting between Kolkata Police officials and tournament organizers, it was decided that the final Group A fixture will be abandoned. As a result, both teams will be awarded one point each. Fans who purchased tickets for the match will receive a full refund. The decision to cancel the match was made to ensure public safety amid the volatile situation in Kolkata. In light of the ongoing unrest, there are reports that the remaining Durand Cup matches scheduled to be held in Kolkata may be moved to Jamshedpur.

Kunal Ghosh, a supporter of both Mohun Bagan and a TMC leader, expressed disappointment over the cancellation. “Let the administration reconsider the cancellation decision. If anyone shows a 'We want Justice' banner, show it. Ignore another banner of provocation. But postponement of the derby will spread a wrong message...Let’s have the Match,” said Ghosh.

The cancellation of the derby affects the standings in Group A of the Durand Cup. While Mohun Bagan has already qualified for the quarterfinals, East Bengal's position remains precarious. They are currently second in Group A with seven points from three matches. The top team from each group, along with two of the best second-placed sides across all groups, will advance to the quarterfinals.

The protests, which began after the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor on August 9, have led to a nationwide strike called by the Indian Medical Association (IMA). The strike aims to demand justice and improve safety measures for medical professionals. Critics have accused the Kolkata Police and the ruling Trinamool Congress Government of mishandling the case and attempting to shield the perpetrators. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the case, with at least 30 suspects identified and questioned.