The tussle between the century old club East Bengal and it’s Sponsors Shree Cement over the authority of the the sporting rights reached to an extent that put the future of the club under a doubt. Having pulled out of ISL and Calcutta Football League already, the internal affairs were strongly jeopardizing the athletic approach of the club. With the condition worsening day by day, the former players met at the club and release an unanimous statement , saying :
“During the club’s difficult time, we the former players of East Bengal met today at the club premise. We are all aware of the ongoing problem between the club and their investor and how that has cast doubt over the participation of the club in ISL and other important tournaments. “
“After going through the proposed final agreement we have concluded that the club officials should have been more careful while signing the initial term sheet because this is a one-sided contract. In any agreement, both parties should have equal rights when it comes to exiting the joint-venture that is not there in the agreement. Also, a few more clauses go against a century-old club like East Bengal, like the right to the club ground and logo which will be transferred to the investor forever. This cannot be accepted. “
“We further opined that as per the initial term sheet, the sporting rights of the club is with Shree Cement and we urge them to build a strong team and start their preparation for the forthcoming ISL season eight. We hope that considering the sentiments of the ex-players, officials and the members and supporters of the club the issue will be resolved soon.”
“In the proposed final agreement, several clauses are further complicated, and it is difficult for the club officials to accept them. We the former players of this club, request Mr Hari Mohan Bangur to resolve via discussion so that East Bengal can play again.”
“Also, we would like to draw the kind attention of the respected Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee on this issue and will seek an appointment with her so that the issue gets resolved soon.”
It can be hoped that the action taken by the former players would create an impact that would catalyse the process of finding solution and also bring it to the notice of the Cheif Minister who played a huge role in the East Bengal- Shree Cement initial agreement before East Bengal’s debut season in ISL , after departure of Quess.
