The All India Football Federation has condoled the death of Samir (Paltu) Roy who passed away at a nursing home in Kolkata. He was the last surviving member of the Indian squad which played in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics.
AIFF president Praful Patel in his message said, “It is sad to hear that Mr. Samir Roy is no more. He belonged to a generation which took Indian Football to golden heights. I share the grief.”
AIFF general secretary Kushal Das said, “Mr. Samir Roy will be alive in his achievements. He has been the inspiration for so many Footballers. May his soul Rest in Peace.”
At the domestic level, Roy, who was a left-wing back represented Bengal thrice in the Santosh Trophy, winning it on all occasions.
He also played for East Bengal Club for three years, and was part of the triumphant squad which won the IFA Shield, the Durand Cup, the DCM Trophy, and the Calcutta Football League titles, twice each.
He was honoured with East Bengal Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.