Durand Cup 2024: East Bengal, Mohun Bagan Quarterfinal Matches Moves Out of Kolkata

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In a sudden turn of events, the Durand Cup 2024 quarterfinal matches of two of India's biggest football clubs, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, may be relocated from Kolkata due to security concerns.

The tournament organizers and local authorities could decide to shift Mohun Bagan and East Bengal's quarterfinal fixtures to alternate venues. According to a senior official of Mohun Bagan, they may now face Punjab FC on August 23rd at 4:00 PM.

The match could take place at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur, a venue known for its rich footballing culture. The team is likely to travel to Jamshedpur on August 21st in preparation for the crucial match.

Similarly, East Bengal's quarter-final clash could happen against Shillong Lajong and it may be held in Shillong on August 21st. Although the official confirmation is awaited, it seems increasingly likely that the match will be moved to Shillong, given the volatile situation in Kolkata.

The decision comes amid widespread protests throughout the city, sparked by public outrage over the rape and murder of a young woman, Moumita Debnath.

The ongoing protests have created a tense atmosphere in Kolkata, leading authorities to fear potential safety risks during large public gatherings, including football matches. These concerns were heightened after the much-anticipated Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal was declared abandoned.

The match was initially slated to be one of the marquee events of the tournament but was called off due to the unstable situation in the city. The security issues that led to the matches being shifted stem from the growing number of protests across Kolkata and West Bengal, as the public continues to demand justice for Moumita Debnath.

The 23-year-old was brutally raped and murdered, leading to widespread demonstrations and calls for swift action from the authorities. As protests continue to disrupt daily life in Kolkata, officials are prioritizing public safety, leading to these precautionary measures.

Fans of both clubs are disappointed by the abandonment of the Kolkata derby. With the quarterfinal matches now set to be played outside Kolkata, both Mohun Bagan and East Bengal will need to adapt to new conditions as they continue their pursuit of glory in the tournament.