IFA Takes Firm Action After Referee Assault in Youth League Match: Hooghly City FC Expelled, Life Bans Imposed

The Indian Football Association (IFA) has enforced a strict zero-tolerance policy across West Bengal’s domestic football circuits, after a horrific incident during a state youth league match.

The decisive action comes after a shocking referee assault during a U-17 State Youth League match on May 23 in Magra.

A video was captured where the players were seen chasing referees and assaulting them - kicking, pushing and beating the officials.

Following the chaotic incident involving Hooghly City FC’s coaching staff and players, the IFA Disciplinary Committee, along with the Grassroots Development Committee, convened an emergency joint meeting. After a thorough investigation and hearing statements from match officials and the accused parties, the governing body delivered severe punishments to safeguard the integrity of the sport.

Breakdown of Punishments

Apart from that, the accused players and team manager have been significantly punished for their assault.

Biswajit Roy (Team Manager): Lifetime ban from all football-related activities.

Rupam Das (Player): Lifetime ban for participating in the assault and playing under a fraudulent identity (impersonation).

Sabyasachi Mukherjee (Kit Manager): 5-year suspension from the sport.

Soumyajit Parui (Player): 5-year ban from competitive football.

Other Squad Members: Multiple players found guilty of direct involvement or inciting violence have each received a 1-year suspension.

The IFA has made its position crystal clear: any form of physical violence or intimidation against match officials will not be tolerated. The lifetime ban for identity fraud also sends a stern warning to clubs attempting to field unregistered or overage players using false names in youth competitions.

These stringent measures highlight the IFA’s firm commitment to maintaining discipline, respect, and safety for referees and officials in West Bengal football.