The recent announcement of the All India Football Federation’s bid to host 10 matches of the 2034 FIFA World Cup has ignited excitement in Indian football. However, this positive momentum is dampened by a distressing incident in Bengaluru, shedding light on the challenges and ethical concerns within the sport at the domestic level.
The hurried passage of the Telecommunications Bill by Prime Minister Modi and the Communications Ministry in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha raises questions about the government’s approach to debate and consultation. This backdrop of urgency and assertiveness has reverberated in the incident at a Bengaluru club, highlighting the darker aspects of Indian football.
The troubling episode involves the treatment of young footballers from the Sonarpur Dynamic Academy in West Bengal, revealing the challenges and exploitation faced by budding athletes. Thirteen-year-old goalkeeper Abhishek Banerjee and his teammates traveled to Bengaluru to play for the Black Panther Total Footballing Club in the Karnataka State Youth League, marking their first venture outside their home state.
Despite high hopes, the reality proved starkly different from the promises made. In the first game, Banerjee sustained an injury and complained to the Black Panther coach about the pain, only to be reassured that it would heal on its own. The young goalkeeper played through pain and swelling in subsequent matches, raising concerns about the disregard for the well-being of these young athletes.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder that while India strives for international recognition in football, there are pressing issues at the grassroots level that demand immediate attention. The ethical treatment of young players, their welfare, and the fostering of a supportive and nurturing environment should take precedence to ensure the holistic growth of football in India.