AIFF Refers Complaints of Alleged Racial Abuse Against Players in ISL To Disciplinary Committee
New Delhi: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has forwarded complaints regarding alleged racial abuse during the ongoing Indian Super League to the Disciplinary Committee after Kerala Blasters requested action regarding an incident involving one of their players.
Kerala Blasters had filed a complaint with the AIFF after one of their players was “subjected to blatant racist chants” during their ISL away match against Bengaluru FC at the Kanteerava Stadium on April 11.
Kerala Blasters defender Fallou Ndiaye, who hails from Senegal, was allegedly subjected to racial slurs by Bengaluru FC fans, videos of which were widely circulated on social media. Kerala won that match 2-1.
“AIFF has received some complaints regarding alleged racist behavior towards players during the ongoing Indian Super League 2025-26. We stand with the players and every individual who has the right to attend and participate in this beautiful game without any form of discrimination,” AIFF said in a statement on Tuesday. he said.
“AIFF maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards racism. Complaints have been forwarded to the Disciplinary Committee, an independent judicial body, for review in accordance with the AIFF Disciplinary Code. AIFF will refrain from commenting further while proceedings are ongoing.
“The Indian football family stands resolutely against racism. Those who bring hatred to our stadiums have no place in our game.”
Earlier, Kerala Blasters had condemned the allegations of racist abuse leveled against one of its players.
“The club has taken note of the horrific incident that occurred in our last match, in which one of our players was subjected to blatant racist chants,” the statement said.
“The club strongly condemns this action and has formally escalated this matter to the relevant ISL and AIFF authorities. We will also take appropriate steps to protect our player’s integrity.
“There is no room for racism in our game.”
Bengaluru FC also criticized the racist behavior of its own fans and said they were working with the relevant authorities to identify those involved in the incident.
“We condemn this behavior in the strongest possible terms. Racism is unacceptable, has no place in our sport and is completely contrary to the values this club stands for,” the BFC said in a statement. he said.
“We are working with the relevant authorities to identify the person involved in this incident and will take appropriate action.
“We demand and expect every supporter representing this Club to uphold the highest standards of respect and sportsmanship at all times. Bengaluru FC will continue to stand firmly against all forms of racism and discrimination.”
