The videos and photos of the unwanted incidence at the Indian Super League game between Chennaiyin FC vs NorthEast United FC on Thursday, November 23 have gone viral and have been covered by mainstream media.
To recollect what happened, a young local man from Chennai or closeby is seen in the footage dancing and gesturing to fans of NorthEast United FC, who hail from the NorthEast with women amongst men. While one of the women and also their male friend tries to end the mockery what was more shocking to me a whole section of the crowd is seen watching the incidence but not reacting or intervening or doing something to end this disgraceful and unacceptable behaviour.
After the videos went viral, the media started to pick on the story and raised the topics of Racism against people from the NorthEast, behavour towards women in public places, etc.
Racism is defined as prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one’s own race is superior.
And for me it is clear, RACISM in any form against NOBODY in the world due to their skin colour, ethnicity, social background or any other reason is acceptable. Just saying that we are sorry, we are with the victims isn’t enough, action need to follow up these words by the authorities, the league and the clubs.
But on the other side it has been good to see, so many people involved with and working in Indian football reacting to the incidence, condemning the happenings at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai.
These were some of the tweets from India captain Sunil Chhetri & India striker Jeje Lalpekhlua!
A lot has been happening that’s far from what football stands for and the joy it gives us. As fans of the game lets all add a little responsibility, that of being better humans.
— Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) November 25, 2017
The incident at the last match is something unacceptable. Players, officials or fans there is no place for racism in football or in any place else.
Hope those guilty are of this are found and action is taken.#SayNoToRacism
— jeje lalpekhlua (@jejefanai) November 25, 2017
We all should support the #SayNoToRacism campaign by posting it across all our social media. Lets make people aware!!!
Here the statement from NorthEast United FC
Statement: NEUFC stands by the the passionate supporters who faced untoward incident at the Marina Arena in Chennai last night. Here is a brief statement from our owner John Abraham. #Highlanders we are with you. #8States1United pic.twitter.com/ceej8iVvG3
— NorthEast United FC (@NEUtdFC) November 24, 2017
Here the statement from Chennaiyin FC
Chennaiyin FC has a very strict and firm policy against racism and any unbecoming behaviour in the stadium. The club strongly condemns any such act. We are looking into any such incidents and will take strong action against it. pic.twitter.com/0ZD2VjMCBM
— Chennaiyin FC (@ChennaiyinFC) November 24, 2017