Former Indian cricket captain and iconic sports administrator Sourav Ganguly has taken legal action against the head of a prominent Kolkata-based football fan club. Ganguly has filed a formal complaint with the Cyber Cell of the Kolkata Police over what he describes as 'objectionable' remarks made by the individual.
The Complaint and Its Core Allegations
In a detailed complaint sent via email, Sourav Ganguly stated that the statements made by the football fan club official have severely impacted his personal and professional standing. The complaint, filed on 18 December 2025, argues that the remarks were not only defamatory but also caused significant distress, adversely affecting his reputation and mental peace.
Ganguly, a revered figure in Indian sports, chose to escalate the matter through official channels rather than engage in a public spat. By approaching the Cyber Cell, he has highlighted the digital nature of the alleged offence, suggesting the comments were made or disseminated online.
Legal Recourse and Police Involvement
The Kolkata Police Cyber Cell is now examining the complaint filed by the former BCCI president. This unit specialises in investigating crimes committed in the digital space, including cyberbullying, defamation, and online harassment. The filing of this complaint sets a precedent for how public figures in India are increasingly turning to cyber laws to protect their digital identity and personal dignity.
While the specific content of the remarks has not been disclosed publicly, the legal step underscores Ganguly's seriousness in seeking redress. The complaint is expected to trigger a formal inquiry, where police will likely summon the accused for questioning and gather evidence related to the alleged online posts or statements.
Broader Implications for Public Figures
This incident sheds light on the persistent challenges faced by celebrities and sports icons regarding online abuse and character assassination. Ganguly's decision to file a police complaint, rather than ignore the comments, sends a strong message about holding individuals accountable for their public statements, even in the loosely regulated sphere of fan club banter.
The case also intertwines the worlds of cricket and football fandom in Kolkata, a city passionate about both sports. It raises questions about the boundaries of criticism and the point where fan commentary crosses into legally actionable defamation. The outcome of this police action could influence how fan clubs and their leaders engage with sports personalities on public platforms in the future.
As the Kolkata Police proceed with their investigation, the sports community and the public await further developments. This move by Sourav Ganguly reinforces the notion that a legendary stature does not make one immune to personal attacks, and legal avenues are available for recourse.
