Controversial Yuva Bharati statue linked to Mamata Banerjee’s vision demolished

The controversial structure standing outside the VIP gate of Salt Lake’s Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan has been demolished, bringing an end to years of debate surrounding its design and relevance.

The move comes shortly after Sports Minister Nishith Pramanik publicly stated that the structure would be removed.

Located along the EM Bypass, the giant football-themed installation had drawn criticism from a section of football fans ever since it was installed in 2017 during the renovation of the stadium ahead of the FIFA U-17 World Cup hosted by India.

As part of preparations for the international tournament, Yuva Bharati underwent extensive redevelopment work.

Artificial turf was replaced with natural grass, new bucket seats were installed across the galleries, practice facilities were upgraded, and several infrastructural improvements were carried out to bring the stadium in line with global standards.

The structure, conceptualised under the vision of then Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, featured an abstract football-inspired design.

It included two legs at the base topped by a large sphere displaying the Biswa Bangla logo, while footballs carrying the word “Joyi” (victorious) were placed beside it.

Soon after its installation, however, many football enthusiasts questioned the design, arguing that a stadium with such historical and sporting significance should have instead showcased statues of legendary footballers from Bengal or India.

The issue returned to the spotlight after Nishith Pramanik, who recently attended the ISL Kolkata Derby at Yuva Bharati, announced that the structure would be replaced.

Addressing reporters after the match, the Sports Minister criticised the installation and said it did not fit the stature of an international-standard venue.

He maintained that the stadium deserved a more meaningful and visually appealing landmark.

Following the remarks, speculation grew over the timeline for the removal. The demolition was eventually carried out on Saturday morning, with the structure being brought down within days of the announcement.

The decision is being seen as one of the first major visible changes under the new administration’s plans for Yuva Bharati.

Attention has now shifted to what will take its place, with some football fans calling for a statue honouring one of Bengal’s or India’s football legends.