In a rare display of unity, supporters of rival Kolkata football clubs, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, came together to demand justice for a medical student who was reportedly raped and murdered.
The incident involving the rape and murder of a junior medical student in Kolkata has sparked nationwide protests.
The Supreme Court of India is set to hear the case while the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) intensifies its probe.
Historically fierce rivals in football, supporters of East Bengal and Mohun Bagan clubs united in Kolkata, marking a significant moment of solidarity.
These supporters held a large rally, carrying placards and posters, demanding justice for the victim's family.
The protest reached a critical point when the police intervened, trying to manage the gathering due to security concerns.
The rally took place near the Salt Lake Stadium, a notable soccer venue in Kolkata known for hosting significant football matches.
The All India Football Federation's President, Kalyan Chaubey, also joined the protesters.
Football matches involving East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, which attract large audiences, have a storied century-long rivalry, making this unity in protest noteworthy.
For safety reasons, a subsequent Kolkata Derby match was canceled by law enforcement.
