East Bengal fan receives death threats, Robbie Fowler responds
(Courtesy : ISL Media)
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
One of the Red and Gold Brigade fan groups has claimed their head allegedly received threats.
The ongoing crisis at SC East Bengal plunged to a new low after a fan group claimed one of their members received death threats and was abused for protesting against the club's decision to not sign the final agreement. East Bengal officials, on June 16, reiterated their decision to not sign the agreement with Shree Cement. In a press release, the officials alleged the clauses in the final agreement did not match the initial agreement signed by both parties.
The decision to not sign the final agreement draft sent by the investors has left fans in a conflict. While some are backing the decision of the officials, others have been protesting against it. East Bengal the Real Power (EBRP), which is one of the groups protesting against the decision, claimed on social media their head Rabi Shankar Sen had received death threats.
The group had called for protesting fans to gather in huge numbers on July 21 outside the club tent and participate in a procession, objecting to the club's stand to not sign the agreement. But, the head of the group has allegedly received death threats. The group took to social media to share details about the threats and also called for police intervention in the matter.
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Robbie Fowler reacts
Incidentally, Robbie Fowler, East Bengal head coach, also took to social media to react to the post. "Disgraceful but honestly not surprised," commented the Liverpool legend. Under Fowler, East Bengal finished ninth last season and had a disappointing debut ISL campaign. The Red and Gold managed only three wins in 20 games, while also losing on nine occasions.
With the club plunged into a crisis and its future participation in the ISL in the balance, there remain doubts about whether Fowler will return to coach the side for a second season.
What has happened so far
On Friday, 24 East Bengal officials signed a document reiterating their stand on not signing the final agreement. The final draft, the officials said insults the club and also curtails the rights of the officials. The deadline to sign the final agreement expired on May 31. But, the officials have declined to sign the agreement unless amendments are made. They also threatened to resign en masse if forced to sign the agreement.
The final agreement is the final paperwork of the term-sheet, which both parties signed in September last year. Shree Cement, who hold a 76% stake, currently hold the club's sporting rights as well as its assets.
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East Bengal's uncertain future
With the East Bengal officials and Shree Cement involved in an ongoing tussle, the club's future looks uncertain. The investors refused to transfer all rights unless the amount they spent is returned. Shree Cement have also refused to make any signings unless the officials sign the final agreement. The club faces uncertainty with regard to its future participation in the ISL as well as in the CFL.
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