Mohun Bagan Elections: Srinjoy Bose and Debasish Dutta join hands, announce panel

Debasish Dutta(L) and Srinjoy Bose(R). Image: Revsportz

Debasis Sen in Kolkata

In a surprising turn of events, Srinjoy Bose and Debasish Dutta have set aside their long-standing differences and joined forces ahead of the much-anticipated Mohun Bagan club elections. After months of public mudslinging and personal attacks during their respective election campaigns, both Debasish and Srinjoy have come together for a unified cause — to steer the historic club towards a stronger future.

According to insiders, the reconciliation was facilitated by Kunal Ghosh, the club’s vice-president and a prominent member of the ruling Trinamool Congress party. Many believe both Debasish and Srinjoy decided to reconcile after instruction from Nabanna, the state secretariat. Kunal Ghosh’s intervention reportedly played a crucial role in convincing both factions to work collaboratively, leading to an amicable agreement on a joint panel. According to Srinjoy, he was in talks with Debasish over the past few days about not fighting against each other in elections.

As part of the agreement, both groups have representation in the new leadership structure. Srinjoy Bose has been nominated for the role of general secretary, while Debasish Dutta is expected to be named president once the new committee officially assumes charge. On Monday, the duo jointly announced a 22-member panel that reflects a blend of both camps. Notable inclusions are ex-players Satyajit Chatterjee and Shilton Paul, with Chatterjee contesting for the post of assistant general secretary, a position he previously held.

From the Debasish Dutta group, Sandipan Banerjee has been nominated for treasurer, while Swapan Banerjee will serve as the football secretary. On the other hand, key figures from Srinjoy Bose’s camp include Samrat Bhowmik as cricket secretary, Sidhartha Roy as tennis secretary, and former Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Shilton Paul as youth football secretary.

The merger of the two camps also raises questions about the future role of Swapan Sadhan Bose, popularly known as Tutu Bose, who has been synonymous with the club’s leadership for decades. While Debasish Dutta is slated to become president, sources suggest that Tutu Bose could be offered a ceremonial role. There are indications that a special general meeting might be called after the new committee takes over to amend the club’s constitution, allowing for such a position to be created.

After nearly two months of intense political manoeuvring, this newfound harmony signals a significant shift in the club’s internal dynamics. With both Srinjoy and Debasish agreeing to share power, the 136-year-old legacy club appears poised for a new era of unity and forward-thinking leadership.

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