Minerva Punjab seek postponement of I-League clash against Real Kashmir

The Warriors have also stated that they would be willing to settle for the game to be played at a neutral venue.

In light of the Pulwama terror attack, reigning I-League champions Minerva Punjab has requested AIFF to defer their upcoming fixture against Real Kashmir, which is to kick-off in Srinagar. Also, East Bengal has asked if their fixture against the Snow Leopards can take place in another location.

In a terrorist attack carried out by Jaish-e-Mohammed, 37 CRPF personnel were martyred in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. The attack took place when an explosive-filled vehicle consisting of a terrorist hit one of the convoys. 

In an email to AIFF, Minerva owner Ranjit requested for the match to be canceled, and wrote, "Minerva Punjab FC as you know is affiliated to Minerva Academy (Estd. 1955) which has been serving the Indian Armed forces for the last 60 years. We wear a tribute to the Indian Armed Forces on our match jerseys. Needless to say, we stand in support with our Armed Forces, and cannot play a football match, where 42 of our brothers have been martyred."

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In recent developments, the police have identified the terrorist as Adil Ahmad Dar (according to TOI). Also, according to reports, the explosives used were so strong, that they could be heard even 10-12 kilometers away from where the attack took place.

Furthermore, the Chandigarh-based side's owner mentioned that Kashmir is not currently safe due to the attack, and asked if the match can take place in a neutral area. He wrote, "Considering the extraordinary and unprecedented circumstances we hereby request you to please defer the I-League fixture against Real Kashmir till such time our safety is guaranteed by the authorities or have it held at a neutral venue."