BFC claim they were ‘attacked’ during ISL final against Mohun Bagan in Kolkata

Bengaluru Football Club (BFC) have claimed that their owner Parth Jindal suffered “burns and bruises” after an attack by a section of Mohun Bagan Super Giant fans during the Indian Super League final at the Salt Lake stadium on April 12.

The club, in a statement on Tuesday, said that a live firecracker was thrown into the away fans' stands and a supporter sustained an eye injury during the incident.

"Bengaluru FC strongly condemns the reckless and cowardly attack on our travelling supporters by a section of the home fans, where a live firecracker was hurled into the stands during the ISL final against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in Kolkata on Saturday," BFC said in a statement posted on X.

"The incident resulted in a BFC supporter sustaining an injury to the eye that required treatment, while other supporters, including club owner Parth Jindal suffered burns and bruises."

Bengaluru, who lost the final after Jamie Maclaren scored in the first half of extra time, have lodged a complaint with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and also urged the tournament organisers to ensure safety of the fans.

"The club has lodged a formal complaint with the AIFF and the FSDL and is working closely with the Federation and the League to ensure that the incident is addressed and dealt with a manner that sets a precedent for fan safety norms in stadiums.

"Such actions not only endanger lives but go against the very spirit of our beautiful game. Stadiums should be safe space -- now and always. Such acts have no place in football or anywhere."

On Saturday, Bagan side secured an ISL double, taking home both the Shield and the Cup. After a goalless first half, Bengaluru were ahead thanks to an Alberto Rodriguez own goal four minutes into the second half. However, they lost control of the game after Jason Cummings equalised from the spot.

Maclaren’s touch of magic was the difference when the Australian scored the winner in the 96th minute that sent Salt Lake stadium into a frenzy.