Debasis Sen, Kolkata
Amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the future of the Indian Super League (ISL), both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan have been less vocal, unlike the other 11 clubs participating in India’s top-tier football league. The two Kolkata giants have not aligned themselves with the group of clubs that have formally urged the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) to approach the Supreme Court for urgent intervention. The collective letter sent to AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey warns of independent legal action should the Federation fail to act, citing “irreversible damage” due to the ongoing legal stalemate that has stalled crucial decisions for the 2025-26 season.
Surprisingly, both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan have stayed away from joining the other 11 clubs in a confrontation with the Federation. In fact, both clubs have already built a strong squad for the season and are currently taking part in the Durand Cup.
Srinjoy Bose, general secretary of Mohun Bagan club, said to Revsportz, “I will still hold AIFF responsible for the impasse. The Federation officials knew all along that their deal with FSDL ends in December – by which time the ISL is already underway – so why didn’t they resolve this earlier? All stakeholders should come together and end this impasse as soon as possible.”
Srinjoy further added, “I would request the Supreme Court to pass the order at the earliest in the interest of the game in the country. There is a lot of talk about the Sports Bill, which is necessary, but at the same time it is related to all sports bodies where the ruling party is involved. It has to make everyone happy. Definitely having a Sports Tribunal is the need of the hour.”
Debabrata Sarkar of East Bengal Club is also very optimistic about ISL going ahead. “I firmly believe FSDL and AIFF will resolve the crisis and Indian Super League (ISL) will go ahead. Yes, the start of ISL may be delayed this season. I want all stakeholders to join hands for the development of Indian football,” said Debabrata.
He further pointed out, “Indian football will move on whoever is in power. The Federation has taken the right decision in appointing Khalid Jamil as the senior men’s team coach. I think it is a step in the right direction.”
Sources familiar with the developments in Indian football suggest that the ISL season is likely to commence in December, as the Federation and FSDL are expected to renew their agreement for another term. AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey has reassured the clubs during a meeting on July 7 that the league will be held, though the clubs are still demanding clarity regarding the league’s structure.
The letter, jointly signed by the 11 clubs, serves as a strong ultimatum, indicating that they are ready to pursue legal avenues independently to safeguard the league’s integrity if the AIFF does not expedite the matter in the apex court of the country.
The ISL season is normally scheduled from September to April, but under the circumstances it will be delayed a bit until the issues are resolved between FSDL and AIFF.
Also Read: Indian football crisis illustrates why sports tribunal is needed at the earliest
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