Four referees summoned by IFA for officiating match without approval ahead of Messi event

Kolkata: Four referees who officiated a football match at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on 13 December, ahead of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi’s appearance, have been called in by the Indian Football Association (IFA) for allegedly acting without prior approval from the relevant authorities.

The IFA, the governing body for football in West Bengal, has summoned the referees to appear before its internal disciplinary committee, seeking explanations for participating in the match without obtaining the mandatory permission from either the IFA or the Calcutta Referees’ Association (CRA). Sources have indicated that disciplinary action could be initiated against them.

The match, held on 13 December at Salt Lake Stadium—also known as Yuva Bharati Krirangan—took place before Messi’s scheduled appearance. Large crowds had gathered in anticipation of the global football star. However, chaos ensued shortly after Messi arrived, as spectators surged forward to take photographs, overwhelming the security arrangements. Fans later complained that they were unable to see Messi clearly, who left the field after just 22 minutes.

Following his departure, incidents of vandalism were reported inside the stadium. Chairs and bottles were hurled onto the pitch, gates were broken, and several spectators entered the playing area. Damage was also reported in the stands and restrooms. In the aftermath, the state government set up an investigative committee to probe the disturbances.

Event organiser Satadru Dutta was arrested and remains in judicial custody. Meanwhile, Aroop resigned as state Sports Minister, and senior IPS officers, including Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar, were issued show-cause notices.

The football match preceding Messi’s appearance featured Mohun Bagan taking on Diamond Harbour Legends, officiated by the four referees now under scrutiny. The allegation against them centres on their failure to secure the requisite clearance from the IFA and the CRA before officiating the match.

The IFA disciplinary committee is scheduled to meet on 20 January, during which the referees have been asked to present their explanations. Sources say action may be taken for violating established rules governing officiating at high-profile events without proper authorisation. It remains to be seen what defence the referees will offer before the committee.

— IANS