East Bengal Football Club, one of the most iconic clubs in Indian football, has raised serious concerns about the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, urging the government to take urgent action to protect vulnerable communities.
In an official statement, the historic club called on Bangladeshi authorities to prioritize the protection of minorities, emphasizing its long-standing commitment to social justice and its opposition to communal violence. East Bengal, which has been a significant advocate for marginalized communities throughout its century-long history, highlighted its deep-rooted connection to the region.
“East Bengal Club was born out of protest – a protest against racism long before the term gained widespread recognition and inclusion in the FIFA charter,” the statement read. “Since then, the club has consistently stood at the forefront of movements fighting racial and communal persecution, and has always been there for those in need, whether during the 1943 Bengal famine, the Ayla disaster, or the Covid-19 pandemic.”
The club also emphasized its historical ties to Bangladesh, with a significant number of its supporters having ancestral roots in the country. East Bengal highlighted how the recent rise in persecution of minorities in Bangladesh has profoundly affected its fanbase.
“The systematic targeting of minorities has deeply impacted our supporters, many of whom are descendants of those affected by such violence during and after the partition, as well as in the late 60s and early 70s,” the statement continued.
East Bengal also revealed it had received numerous appeals from fans, urging the club to raise awareness of the ongoing persecution. These appeals have come not only from supporters in Bangladesh but also from fans in West Bengal and other parts of India, all expressing deep concern over the situation.
“Such rampant persecution of minorities must stop,” the statement urged. “We request the competent authorities to prioritize this issue and take all necessary steps to protect and offer relief to the victims across the border.”
Debabrata ‘Nitu’ Sarkar, a senior official at East Bengal, emphasized the club’s neutral position, stating, “This is not a political matter, but a humanitarian one of international significance. We are ready to write to the prime minister if necessary. We wish to show solidarity in our capacity and call for an immediate resolution.”
Founded in 1920 as a protest against perceived discrimination by the British colonial football establishment, East Bengal has become a symbol of resilience and unity for marginalized communities. The club’s current appeal underscores its continued commitment to justice, equality, and humanitarian concerns beyond the football field.
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