KOLKATA: The West Bengal government on Saturday removed the controversial football-themed sculpture installed outside the Salt Lake Stadium, which was designed by former chief minister Mamata Banerjee.
Decision Announced by Sports Minister
Earlier, State Sports Minister Nisith Pramanik had announced the decision while outlining a series of planned infrastructure upgrades at the stadium. Speaking to the media after the Indian Super League Kolkata derby between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC ended in a 1-1 draw on May 17, Pramanik criticised the structure and said it lacked aesthetic appeal.
“Such an ugly-looking statue, two legs cut at torso and football above it does not make sense. It does not look aesthetically pleasing either, so we will not keep such a grotesque structure that has no meaning, and it will be taken down,” Pramanik told reporters.
Background of the Sculpture
The sculpture was installed in 2017 near the VVIP gate of the Salt Lake Stadium ahead of the FIFA U-17 World Cup. It featured giant footballing legs merging into the Biswa Bangla logo, with the word “Joyi” written on the football. Since its unveiling, the structure had drawn mixed reactions from football supporters in Kolkata, with many questioning its design and symbolism.
Political Remarks
Pramanik also made a political remark linking the sculpture to the decline of the previous Trinamool Congress government. “I feel that after this statue was installed, the bad days of the previous government started. Then the Messi controversy happened, and the government lost power,” he said.
Replacement of Biswa Bangla Logo
The minister further stated that the BJP-led state government has already begun replacing the “Biswa Bangla” logo with the Ashoka emblem at government establishments and public infrastructure, including the Salt Lake Stadium.
This move is part of broader infrastructure upgrades planned for the stadium, which is one of the largest football venues in India. The removal of the sculpture marks a significant change in the stadium's aesthetic direction under the new government.
The decision has sparked discussions among football fans and political observers, with some supporting the move for aesthetic reasons and others viewing it as a political statement. The government has not announced any immediate plans for a replacement sculpture.
