Mumbai terror attacks: Nightmare in the lap of luxury

The terrorist rampage that gripped the world for three days began in silence as eight killers stepped from a boat on to a dark city beach. Now India demands to know who they were, where they came from ... and most of all, why the security forces failed to prevent them

Soldier prevents people from approaching the Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai on November 29, 2008. Photograph: Pedro Ugarte/afp

From the moment a small boat nudged the shore of Mumbai's Fisherman's Colony on Wednesday evening and decanted eight young men clad in orange anoraks, the plan was simple: kill and keep killing to the very last breath।

The little group paused to shed their waterproof jackets, revealing jeans and T-shirts. Picking up their bulging rucksacks from the black inflatable, they turned silently and set off towards the heart of India's financial capital।

The beach was virtually empty, most of the residents of the area having retreated indoors to watch the final stages of the one-day cricket match between India and England। India won, but it was the last piece of good news the country would have until yesterday morning when Mumbai was finally freed from the grip of an audacious terrorist outrage that claimed the lives of at least 195 people.

For 62 hours, the gunmen roamed freely around some of the city's most prestigious hotels, killing at random, holding Mumbai and the wider world in horrified thrall।

Despite the lure of the cricket, one man had ventured out onto the beach on Wednesday evening। Bharat Tamore, an assistant supervisor at the Taj Mahal Palace hotel, was gazing out to sea when he spotted the dinghy drifting noiselessly towards the beach.

It was 9।15pm and by the light of the moon Tahore watched the men jump off. They were young, no more than 25, thin and good-looking, 'like Bollywood stars,' he recalled later, although their faces wore a grim, determined look. On their backs were blue rucksacks, and in their hands red carry-bags heavy enough to cause one of the smaller men to stumble. They were students, they said, when he asked what they were doing: 'They told me that they were tense and that they didn't need any more tension.'

The young men slipped away into the night in the direction of the Taj Mahal Palace and the ornate splendour of the Gateway of India।

But they were not the only ones on the move। Across the southern tip of the city, others were also collecting weapons and heading out to get the carnage under way. How many there were, no one seems quite sure: as many as 40, some sources suggested.

The key questions are what they intended to achieve in their murderous rampage, their identities, and who sent them to Mumbai। Answers are likely to come in the first instance from one of those who clambered out of the inflatable on Wednesday night - 21-year-old Mohammad Ajmal Mohammad Amin Kasab - the only terrorist known to have been captured alive by Indian security forces. As details of his interrogation were disclosed yesterday in the Indian media, the first proper understanding of what happened in three days of bloodshed began to emerge out of the contradictory details - building a case that pointed ever more strongly towards Pakistan. It is not just the Indian media who are saying out loud what many suspected, but also state officials. What they had only hinted at in the beginning - with Kasab's interrogation - was yesterday stated more boldly. '[The] investigation carried out so far has revealed the hand of Pakistan-based groups in the Mumbai attack,' said Sri Prakash Jaiswal, India's Minister of State for Home Affairs.

As Kasab left the docks, it was in the company of a man the police say has been identified as Ismail Khan, the terrorists splitting into pairs of small kill teams।

The journey that followed across Mumbai - described in the Indian press - took the two men first by taxi to the CST railway station, where Kasab was chillingly photographed as he paused, amid the gunfire and grenades that killed as many as 50 people, in grey combat trousers, a dark blue T-shirt and wearing a rucksack with spare ammunition on one shoulder।

From the railway station Khan and Kasab moved on to the Cama and GT hospitals, firing as they went। According to the same sources, it was during their progress through Mumbai that the pair shot dead the Anti-Terrorism Squad chief Hemant Karkare and another senior officer. Their killing spree was only halted when Khan was shot down in the Girgaum Chowpatty locality of south Mumbai, and when Kasab surrendered.

Now Kasab is talking, and what he has to say is likely to define the future relations of two nuclear-armed rivals - India and Pakistan। Yesterday a Pakistani official said it would divert troops to its border with India and away from fighting militants on the Afghan frontier, if tensions erupt in the wake of the attacks on Mumbai. That the tensions will increase in the coming days seems likely.

Already, if the accounts of his questioning are to be believed, Kasab has revealed that, like him, most of his fellow attackers hailed from Pakistan - although that has yet to be confirmed. He revealed that the group had been planning the attack for months. Some are thought to have taken jobs in the targeted hotels, others had checked in as guests a few days earlier, using their rooms to stockpile weapons. Kasab - from Faridkot in Pakistan - and eight others had visited Mumbai a few months earlier, posing as students and taking a room in the Colaba market area, which they used as a safe-house to store the supplies they would need for the attacks. According to police, Kasab told them that the main planner arrived in Mumbai a month ago to film potential targets to help train the gunmen. Once he was satisfied that they were ready, the boat team members were each issued with an AK-47 rifle, a pistol, 350 bullets and eight hand-grenades.
A recovered GPS device suggested they set out from the Pakistani port of Karachi in a larger boat - though such is the friction between the two countries that such reports have to be treated with caution - before overpowering the crew of another vessel and sailing to within four nautical miles of Mumbai। There, they transferred to speedboats and made for the shore. So began a night of terror.

Even as Kasab and Khan were attacking the CST station, another pair of gunmen hit the the Leopold Café, a popular haunt for backpackers। Witnesses described how the gunmen took weapons out of backpacks and hurled grenades, killing at least one person. More gunmen moved through the area in a hijacked police vehicle, firing indiscriminately.

At Nariman House, the attackers went for a Jewish centre run by Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg, and his wife Rivka। The couple's son Moshe, two, was rescued by his nanny. They were the only survivors.

But the images of horror that will forever be associated with one of India's darkest days were reserved for elsewhere - the imposing Oberoi and Taj Mahal Palace hotels, frequented by Western business travellers and well-heeled Indians। Here it was the restaurants that took the brunt of the initial assault, but the terrorists quickly fanned out to round up more hostages. At the Taj, the first shots were fired near the swimming pool before the gunmen swarmed into the hotel.

It was in the Taj that a sinister new element to the attack emerged। Survivors said the gunmen were particularly interested in British and American guests, singling them out as targets and ignoring other nationalities. Guests scattered in panic as the carnage continued. 'There were people getting shot in the corridor. There was someone dead outside the bathroom,' said 28-year-old Australian former Neighbours actress Brooke Satchwell.

Bharat Tamore had reached the hotel only a few minutes earlier। Changing into his uniform ready for the night shift, he heard gunshots coming from the fashionable Shamiana restaurant above. 'I stepped out and saw staff and guests running. It was then I remembered those eight boys,' he said.

Paralysed by fear, he crouched with staff in the kitchen, listening to the crump of explosions and crackle of machine-gun fire until 4am, when they made a dash for freedom।

At the Oberoi, Madhu Kumar, 58, had sat down to a meal with her husband Ashok, 65, and two friends। Panic spread through the room as a gunman burst in, herding them up the stairs. 'He had a scarf like a bandana and a scarf on his mouth and he was carrying a machine gun,' she said. 'There was a stampede. We had heard a commotion and a lot of loud firing. Everybody got panicky. I saw a girl with a bleeding arm. She had been shot.'

She noticed that the gunman was quite fair-skinned and spoke in English - he was a Kashmiri, perhaps, she said। As they moved up the stairs, she heard a gunshot behind her. 'This man was shot by a terrorist behind us. The terrorist said "wait", and I heard the shot and he fell. They were just shooting people at random.'

Caught on the hop and hopelessly outgunned, police struggled to cope। The first team to respond consisted of just eight members of the Mumbai force, each armed with a revolver. It took until 2am for the first military personnel to arrive, a group of 40 Marine commandos summoned from their beds to go to the Taj. Even then, no one was able to give them any information about the layout of the hotel. They did not know the strength of their opponents or what weapons they possessed. Entering the hotel, they found about 15 bodies, but before they could do anything else the terrorists opened fire and hurled grenades. By the time the firing stopped, the gunmen had slipped away into the maze of corridors and passageways in the old building.

Now in the aftermath that has left almost 200 dead - perhaps more in the final counting - it is not simply the question of who sent Kasab and his fellow gunmen to Mumbai that is exercising a shocked India। After three days of combat in which a handful of highly trained and motivated gunmen held off against massively superior Indian forces before being at last overwhelmed, what India wants to know is how its security forces could have been caught so flat-footed yet again, when they should have been at the highest state of vigilance after a series of murderous attacks around the country this year.

How, too, some asked, had they failed so dramatically to bring the situation under control during the best part of three days?

Sitting in a side street listening to the sound of loud blasts and gunfire emanating from Nariman House, Rakash Bhaud, the local leader of the far-right Hindu party Shiv Sena, blamed the central government for the failures that, he said, had left them at the mercy of Pakistan-backed terrorists।

'There is a deep anger here against the government for not providing security for the common people,' he said। 'The extremists have taken advantage of this. We don't have the security to fight against this.'

If the attackers' intention was to stir up tensions between India and Pakistan - and by extension, Hindu and Muslim - they most certainly succeeded। Anti-Pakistan slogans were being chanted freely by the crowds who gathered to watch the storming of Nariman House.

As the firing died away yesterday morning, the work of getting the city back on its feet began. In the restaurant at the Oberoi hotel, staff were starting to sweep the broken glass away from the tables on which meals abandoned by the fleeing guests still lay. But it may take a lot longer to sweep away the memories of the events of last week and the old enmities it has stirred up.
For now, however, it is a moment for India to come to terms with what has happened। 'I had arranged to meet a friend in the Oberoi Trident lobby on Wednesday night,' said Malani Agarwal, 31, a radio presenter on Mumbai Radio. 'He said he was coming late, so I went upstairs to a lounge bar called the Dragon Fly which is a few doors away. Then we saw a lot of "fireworks" in the lobby. Ten minutes later we felt a tremor. That was the first grenade, then another one. People started getting texts about a gang war at Leopold's Café and then the Oberoi. The Dragon Café has bulletproof glass and you could see bullets lodged in the windows. That was really scary. We put the television onto the news and saw the Taj burning. The army coming. We all just felt numb. Too scared to move really. It was the worst night of my life. This will be a wake-up call.'

Do we need a federal agency to tackle terrorism?

Do we need a federal agency to tackle terrorism? Ritesh Srivastav The recent surge in terrorists activities especially the siege of Mumbai and serial blasts in major Indian cities has once again kick-started a national debate over the need for having a federal agency to deal with crimes having inter-state and cross border ramifications. Lack of strict anti-terror legislations and bottlenecks in the existing laws have made it difficult for the security agencies to break the terror network and avert major tragedies well in time. Terror in India has multiple manifestations, with support from across the border, religious fanaticism from within, economic terrorism, and sympathisers of militancy in neighbouring countries. In the aftermath of these incidents, a tug of war has started between the Centre and the main opposition BJP, blaming each other for not taking adequate measures to contain terrorism. The UPA government in the Centre, led by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, has come under tremendous pressure, especially from the main opposition BJP and its own coalition partners, for being soft on terror. The situation arising out of this has pushed the demands for a federal investigative agency having executive powers and in accordance with the suggestions made by various police reforms panels. However, rooting out terrorism from the country is for sure a Herculean task, which requires a consensus between Centre and various states governments, and better coordination between law and order enforcement agencies. The initial probe conducted by the intelligence agencies after every bomb blasts has pointed fingers towards the inter-state network of the terrorist organizations and their international connections. In most of the cases, the security agencies have failed to nab the real masterminds, who operate from across the border with the help of their sleeper cells or local recruits. The terror modules or the sleeper cells developed by the terrorist organizations are not easy to detect and in most cases they succeed in executing their nefarious designs deceiving the security apparatus of the country. The initial probe conducted by the intelligence agencies soon after the blasts in Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Malegaon or Mecca Mosque in Hyderabad showed that the terrorist outfits collected vital logistics from different states using their local sleeper cells before executing their plans. This, therefore, makes it difficult for the local police and the intelligence agencies to establish the missing links when they start their investigations later. After every blast, the security agencies swing into action but often fail to follow up the trail completely to reach the masterminds or the main operatives. By the time one state police gathers valuable information and tries to contact its counterpart in other state, the perpetrators of crime disappear leaving the security officials baffled. Under these situations, the leads obtained by the local police fail to yield any concrete results and thus minimizes the chances of any arrest, trial and conviction of 'real' culprits. Talking about the loopholes in the existing laws, former CBI director U S Misra says, "The situation will continue unless India has a federal crime investigating agency to probe organised crimes like terrorism, circulation of fake currency and narcotics trade, which not only have inter-state ramifications but also have international dimension." Such incidents have provided enough fodder for an intense debate over why India cannot have an agency like Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of the US, which can suo motu take probe of any organised crime including a terrorist attack. Why CBI not an option? Former CBI director U S Misra was among the few who first championed the idea of an independent federal agency, having executive powers similar to the FBI to be able to deal with organized crime. He had even suggested this to the government in the Centre during his stint as CBI chief between 2003-05. However, the then government had not found merit in the proposal and it got dropped. Moreover, opposition to the idea also came from various state governments which were reluctant to share powers. Defence analysts and strategists are now toying with idea of empowering the CBI to take suo motu investigation of terrorism related cases from anywhere in the country if the Centre is unable to create a federal agency. Dealing with a global problem like terrorism calls for extensive research work, monitoring, surveillance and excessive legwork in several states, which could be possible only by setting up a federal agency. Making their points, they argue that a federal agency could be created amending the existing Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, which would provide sweeping powers to the CBI. However, another section of experts has presented a different view point. They support creation of a federal agency other than the CBI, which currently comes under direct executive control. In support of their stance, they say that CBI has developed expertise in tackling cases related to corruption and economic offence. They further argue that the CBI is not equipped enough to deal with special crimes since it depends on states for inputs/intelligence to go ahead with the probe. Experts feel that such an independent agency could be created to investigate terrorism related cases and should be made accountable to Parliament or any of its high-powered committees comprising elected representatives of different political parties to prevent its misuse. One of the factors why CBI could not be a reliable agency is that a majority of cases are passed over to it only after the local police fail to achieve any breakthrough and that too after a long gap. Thus the task of the CBI becomes very difficult and it often fails to collect corroborative evidence leaving its sleuths groping in the dark for clues. For example, the investigations into the Mecca mosque and Malegaon blasts were transferred to the CBI after a considerable gap and the half-hearted approach of the states further complicated the case. The CBI’s failure in several high profile cases like Aarushi Talwar murder, the BMW hit-and-run case and the Jessica Lal murder case has also exposed the woeful state of policing in the country. The dead-end or the drawback in these cases has indicated that the CBI lacks elementary investigating skills, a penchant for solving complicated cases and its edge over others agencies. Instead it has provided a better tool to all those police officers who want to continue staying in the national capital and are not willing to revert back to their respective cadre-posts in the states. The knee-jerk fashion in which the CBI or the entire police machinery operates clearly indicates that it is over worked, stretched and working under great pressure. Misuse of CBI and intelligence agencies Former National Security Advisor Brajesh Mishra holds excessive politicisation of intelligence agencies as well as poor policing responsible for India's failure to check growing terrorist attacks. The effectiveness of intelligence agencies has reduced and they are more involved in spying on what is happening in political parties than doing their work. The agency is being misused by politicians to settle personal scores and, intimidating key opponents and as a shield for defending oneself from complicated cases. The CBI’s commitment to enforce the law strictly without fear is beyond any doubt but the point here is that the federal investigating agency is being misused. It’s not free to operate on its own and put behind bars the most wanted criminals. In some cases where the state government seeks Central assistance through CBI, it becomes too late to catch the culprit. Terrorist organisations, that want to create unrest in the country, are already aware of the existing lacunae in our system and easily chalk out strategies to defend themselves. Poor policing and terrorism Poor policing is also responsible for unchecked and growing terrorist attacks in the country. Major tragedies could have been averted had the police acted swiftly on the crucial information provided by the intelligence agencies. Exposing the rot in the present policing system, ex-NSA Brajesh Mishra recently said, “Only intelligence agencies cannot be blamed. Bad policing is also one of the reasons which have led to failures in preventing terrorist attacks and lowering crime rates.” Worse, despite liberal central schemes encouraging capacity building and modernization of police and other agencies, most states have failed to take significant advantage. Data on utilisation of central funds for police modernisation for the year 2006-07 indicate an average utilisation of just over 63.71 percent for all states. Police recruitment and modernization Recruitment to the police in many states has been frozen for years, and some states are currently functioning with deficits of up to 40 percent against capacities often sanctioned over a decade ago. Where recruitment has occurred, the process has ordinarily been riddled with corruption. Moreover, leadership posts have not been covered, and there are also acute deficits in training capacities. This along with irrational deployments has diluted any impact the increased manpower may have had. In several states, recruitment of thousands of constables has subsequently been 'cancelled' by courts or other authorities because of pervasive corruption and irregularities that marred the process. The government of India has to understand that unlawful activities could not be countered if the countryside remains un-policed and ungoverned. A comprehensive security cannot be guaranteed by the Central government alone, and requires the state police and intelligence apparatus to be brought up to par. Political will power Political will power is needed to create a competent federal investigative agency that operates freely without impediments. It's high time the politicians rise above their political differences and Centre-State 'pulls and pressure' for the sake of India's security. Politicians should not look at general things for shorter gains and should rather take a concrete stand which can strengthen the country’s unity and territorial integrity. Former Intelligence Bureau (IB) chief A K Doval opines that one should not expect countering terrorism without having a 'common strategy' applicable for the entire nation. “Setting up a new federal agency or giving more powers to the CBI to probe terror related cases can be a first concrete step in this direction, “ he adds. Need for stricter laws The deteriorating security situation warrants the government in Centre to introduce tough anti-terror legislations to combat terrorism. In a major turnaround on enacting tough anti-terror law, the Centre has now expressed its willingness to revive the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) or bring in similar law if the political parties were ready to support in Parliament. Scrapping POTA, enacted by the BJP-led NDA government, was the first major policy decision of the UPA government in September 2004. Home Minister Shivraj Patil’s readiness to work out a POTA-like law also coincides with the recommendations of the Second Administrative Reforms Commission, which calls for a “comprehensive Anti- Terrorist legislation.” The Commission, headed by senior Congress leader Veerappa Moily, sought confessions before the police be made “admissible” in the court of law. The repealed anti-terror laws TADA and POTA had also made confessions by the accused as admissible evidence before a magistrate. This apart, the panel said the court should draw “adverse inference” if the accused was found possessing arms or explosives or any dangerous substances. “The new legal framework on terrorism may incorporate provisions regarding freezing of assets, funds, bank accounts, deposits, cash, etc,” the Commission said adding that such action could be carried out with “reasonable suspicion of their intended use in terrorist activities”. The Commission has recommended a specialised cell with experts from Cabinet secretariat, Home Ministry and Finance Ministry to take concerted action on the financial leads obtained from various sources. In a bid to provide a terror-free and peaceful atmosphere to our brethren it’s imperative to evolve a national consensus on terror and follow it up with firm action else it is divisive elements that will end up being gainers.

Do we need a federal agency to tackle terrorism?

Do we need a federal agency to tackle terrorism? Ritesh Srivastav The recent surge in terrorists activities especially the siege of Mumbai and serial blasts in major Indian cities has once again kick-started a national debate over the need for having a federal agency to deal with crimes having inter-state and cross border ramifications. Lack of strict anti-terror legislations and bottlenecks in the existing laws have made it difficult for the security agencies to break the terror network and avert major tragedies well in time. Terror in India has multiple manifestations, with support from across the border, religious fanaticism from within, economic terrorism, and sympathisers of militancy in neighbouring countries. In the aftermath of these incidents, a tug of war has started between the Centre and the main opposition BJP, blaming each other for not taking adequate measures to contain terrorism. The UPA government in the Centre, led by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, has come under tremendous pressure, especially from the main opposition BJP and its own coalition partners, for being soft on terror. The situation arising out of this has pushed the demands for a federal investigative agency having executive powers and in accordance with the suggestions made by various police reforms panels. However, rooting out terrorism from the country is for sure a Herculean task, which requires a consensus between Centre and various states governments, and better coordination between law and order enforcement agencies. The initial probe conducted by the intelligence agencies after every bomb blasts has pointed fingers towards the inter-state network of the terrorist organizations and their international connections. In most of the cases, the security agencies have failed to nab the real masterminds, who operate from across the border with the help of their sleeper cells or local recruits. The terror modules or the sleeper cells developed by the terrorist organizations are not easy to detect and in most cases they succeed in executing their nefarious designs deceiving the security apparatus of the country. The initial probe conducted by the intelligence agencies soon after the blasts in Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Malegaon or Mecca Mosque in Hyderabad showed that the terrorist outfits collected vital logistics from different states using their local sleeper cells before executing their plans. This, therefore, makes it difficult for the local police and the intelligence agencies to establish the missing links when they start their investigations later. After every blast, the security agencies swing into action but often fail to follow up the trail completely to reach the masterminds or the main operatives. By the time one state police gathers valuable information and tries to contact its counterpart in other state, the perpetrators of crime disappear leaving the security officials baffled. Under these situations, the leads obtained by the local police fail to yield any concrete results and thus minimizes the chances of any arrest, trial and conviction of 'real' culprits. Talking about the loopholes in the existing laws, former CBI director U S Misra says, "The situation will continue unless India has a federal crime investigating agency to probe organised crimes like terrorism, circulation of fake currency and narcotics trade, which not only have inter-state ramifications but also have international dimension." Such incidents have provided enough fodder for an intense debate over why India cannot have an agency like Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of the US, which can suo motu take probe of any organised crime including a terrorist attack. Why CBI not an option? Former CBI director U S Misra was among the few who first championed the idea of an independent federal agency, having executive powers similar to the FBI to be able to deal with organized crime. He had even suggested this to the government in the Centre during his stint as CBI chief between 2003-05. However, the then government had not found merit in the proposal and it got dropped. Moreover, opposition to the idea also came from various state governments which were reluctant to share powers. Defence analysts and strategists are now toying with idea of empowering the CBI to take suo motu investigation of terrorism related cases from anywhere in the country if the Centre is unable to create a federal agency. Dealing with a global problem like terrorism calls for extensive research work, monitoring, surveillance and excessive legwork in several states, which could be possible only by setting up a federal agency. Making their points, they argue that a federal agency could be created amending the existing Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, which would provide sweeping powers to the CBI. However, another section of experts has presented a different view point. They support creation of a federal agency other than the CBI, which currently comes under direct executive control. In support of their stance, they say that CBI has developed expertise in tackling cases related to corruption and economic offence. They further argue that the CBI is not equipped enough to deal with special crimes since it depends on states for inputs/intelligence to go ahead with the probe. Experts feel that such an independent agency could be created to investigate terrorism related cases and should be made accountable to Parliament or any of its high-powered committees comprising elected representatives of different political parties to prevent its misuse. One of the factors why CBI could not be a reliable agency is that a majority of cases are passed over to it only after the local police fail to achieve any breakthrough and that too after a long gap. Thus the task of the CBI becomes very difficult and it often fails to collect corroborative evidence leaving its sleuths groping in the dark for clues. For example, the investigations into the Mecca mosque and Malegaon blasts were transferred to the CBI after a considerable gap and the half-hearted approach of the states further complicated the case. The CBI’s failure in several high profile cases like Aarushi Talwar murder, the BMW hit-and-run case and the Jessica Lal murder case has also exposed the woeful state of policing in the country. The dead-end or the drawback in these cases has indicated that the CBI lacks elementary investigating skills, a penchant for solving complicated cases and its edge over others agencies. Instead it has provided a better tool to all those police officers who want to continue staying in the national capital and are not willing to revert back to their respective cadre-posts in the states. The knee-jerk fashion in which the CBI or the entire police machinery operates clearly indicates that it is over worked, stretched and working under great pressure. Misuse of CBI and intelligence agencies Former National Security Advisor Brajesh Mishra holds excessive politicisation of intelligence agencies as well as poor policing responsible for India's failure to check growing terrorist attacks. The effectiveness of intelligence agencies has reduced and they are more involved in spying on what is happening in political parties than doing their work. The agency is being misused by politicians to settle personal scores and, intimidating key opponents and as a shield for defending oneself from complicated cases. The CBI’s commitment to enforce the law strictly without fear is beyond any doubt but the point here is that the federal investigating agency is being misused. It’s not free to operate on its own and put behind bars the most wanted criminals. In some cases where the state government seeks Central assistance through CBI, it becomes too late to catch the culprit. Terrorist organisations, that want to create unrest in the country, are already aware of the existing lacunae in our system and easily chalk out strategies to defend themselves. Poor policing and terrorism Poor policing is also responsible for unchecked and growing terrorist attacks in the country. Major tragedies could have been averted had the police acted swiftly on the crucial information provided by the intelligence agencies. Exposing the rot in the present policing system, ex-NSA Brajesh Mishra recently said, “Only intelligence agencies cannot be blamed. Bad policing is also one of the reasons which have led to failures in preventing terrorist attacks and lowering crime rates.” Worse, despite liberal central schemes encouraging capacity building and modernization of police and other agencies, most states have failed to take significant advantage. Data on utilisation of central funds for police modernisation for the year 2006-07 indicate an average utilisation of just over 63.71 percent for all states. Police recruitment and modernization Recruitment to the police in many states has been frozen for years, and some states are currently functioning with deficits of up to 40 percent against capacities often sanctioned over a decade ago. Where recruitment has occurred, the process has ordinarily been riddled with corruption. Moreover, leadership posts have not been covered, and there are also acute deficits in training capacities. This along with irrational deployments has diluted any impact the increased manpower may have had. In several states, recruitment of thousands of constables has subsequently been 'cancelled' by courts or other authorities because of pervasive corruption and irregularities that marred the process. The government of India has to understand that unlawful activities could not be countered if the countryside remains un-policed and ungoverned. A comprehensive security cannot be guaranteed by the Central government alone, and requires the state police and intelligence apparatus to be brought up to par. Political will power Political will power is needed to create a competent federal investigative agency that operates freely without impediments. It's high time the politicians rise above their political differences and Centre-State 'pulls and pressure' for the sake of India's security. Politicians should not look at general things for shorter gains and should rather take a concrete stand which can strengthen the country’s unity and territorial integrity. Former Intelligence Bureau (IB) chief A K Doval opines that one should not expect countering terrorism without having a 'common strategy' applicable for the entire nation. “Setting up a new federal agency or giving more powers to the CBI to probe terror related cases can be a first concrete step in this direction, “ he adds. Need for stricter laws The deteriorating security situation warrants the government in Centre to introduce tough anti-terror legislations to combat terrorism. In a major turnaround on enacting tough anti-terror law, the Centre has now expressed its willingness to revive the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) or bring in similar law if the political parties were ready to support in Parliament. Scrapping POTA, enacted by the BJP-led NDA government, was the first major policy decision of the UPA government in September 2004. Home Minister Shivraj Patil’s readiness to work out a POTA-like law also coincides with the recommendations of the Second Administrative Reforms Commission, which calls for a “comprehensive Anti- Terrorist legislation.” The Commission, headed by senior Congress leader Veerappa Moily, sought confessions before the police be made “admissible” in the court of law. The repealed anti-terror laws TADA and POTA had also made confessions by the accused as admissible evidence before a magistrate. This apart, the panel said the court should draw “adverse inference” if the accused was found possessing arms or explosives or any dangerous substances. “The new legal framework on terrorism may incorporate provisions regarding freezing of assets, funds, bank accounts, deposits, cash, etc,” the Commission said adding that such action could be carried out with “reasonable suspicion of their intended use in terrorist activities”. The Commission has recommended a specialised cell with experts from Cabinet secretariat, Home Ministry and Finance Ministry to take concerted action on the financial leads obtained from various sources. In a bid to provide a terror-free and peaceful atmosphere to our brethren it’s imperative to evolve a national consensus on terror and follow it up with firm action else it is divisive elements that will end up being gainers.

No football academy for now: Chelsea CEO

MARGAO, OCT 21
One of the leading lights of the world soccer, Chelsea Football Club Chief Executive Officer Peter Kenyon on an invitation from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) made an unofficial visit at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Tuesday morning.

Kenyon who kicked off the Salcete Football Club’s Elvino Lawrence Memorial Football Festival at SAG Sports Complex, Fatorda, today, disclosed that his visit to the state was purely based for the promotion and development of the game.

While taking to media person, Chelsea CEO said that there was nothing official about an agreement with the All India Football Federation but felt both the parties could sit across and decide about the future.

On further prodding, Kenyon who was the masterminded in the revolution at Stamford Bridge disclosed that the Blues will not set up a football academy nor the former EPL Champions will make an earlier visit to the country.

“The football academy cannot be set up of now; it cannot be done in hurry. So, it’s not possible and Chelsea will not be able to play here in India,” said Kenyon.

Kenyon’s words certainly will come a big disappointment to the massive Chelsea followers who were hoping for some football magic from the boots of Frank Lampard, John Terry, Didier Drogba, Michael Ballack, Florent Malouda, Michael Essien, Joe Cole and Deco.

The world’s highest paid football executive was impressed by the I-League set up in India and urged that the clubs should be more professional. He suggested that steps should be taken by the Indian clubs to take football to great heights. The clubs form the backbone of football and they should take the initiate to infuse more professionalism. “The right approach towards the game will only lead to the betterment of football,” Kenyon added.

Under the leadership of Kenyon, the Chelsea football club has been transformed and he is widely regarded as one of the world’s soccer leading executives with an unparalleled network of contacts across FIFA, UEFA and the commercial world.

Peter Kenyon was instrumental in the clubs two record commercial deals - a new shirt sponsorship with Samsung, the biggest in Premiership history at the time and a new kit supplier together deal with Adidas worth around 96m pounds over 8 years.

Most importantly on the field Chelsea won the Premiership, Carlin Cup, FA Community shield in the 2004-05 season and a second successive Premiership in 2005-06.
The Federation Secretary Alberto Colaco said that the Federation would lay more emphasis on Administration and systematic coaching.

The chief Indian Coach Bob Houghton who was also present echoed his feelings and said that the expertises of the sport would further help to improvise Indian Football.

The All India Football Federation had signed an MOU with Bundesliga, protocol with Portuguese Professional League and also sought help from the Brazilian Football Federation to bring professionalism in Indian soccer. India is one the seven pilot countries in the Vision Asia development projects along with neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Indonesia, Iran, Oman, Vietnam and China.

Among those present for the press briefing were GFA President Joaquim Alemao and Ben Wells Profile, Head of Sponsorship, Chelsea Football Club.

Source:oheraldo.in

Chelsea Continue Indian Penetration

Chelsea CEO Peter Kenyon told Indian media in Mumbai on Tuesday that the London club wants to build a better a relationship between with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in order to help develop Indian football.

Kenyon arrived in India on Monday morning and met the AIFF general secretary Alberto Colaco and Indian national team coach Bob Houghton in Goa.

In a press briefing Kenyon said that India’s economic rise as a global powerhouse cannot be ignored.

“Indian football is better structured than before and there are exciting developments happening in this part of the world and I-League for sure is one of them,” Kenyon said.

On being asked the subject of his discussions with the Indian FA, Kenyon said, “There have been no specific areas of discussion but, as a club, we have a series of skills areas we would like to explore.”

The 54 year old also pointed that nothing has been formalized with the Indian FA though the two organizations are looking at a long term tie-up.

This is Kenyon’s third visit in a year or so to India. He first came in November last year along with the then Mayor of London Ken Livingstone.

At the time, Kenyon asked the AIFF to ‘identify various areas in which Chelsea to work with the AIFF and the clubs’, according to Mr.Colaco.

Indian national team coach,and former Fulham player, Bob Houghton was pleased with the talks with the Chelsea boss.

“They (Chelsea) are a great example of big football. India is still part of the developing football world and we ought to derive maximum benefit from them as it can set a great example for football in India.”

Source:Goal.com

Chelsea CEO On Indian Football

Chelsea CEO Peter Kenyon in a press briefing stated his desire to build a better a relationship between the English Premier League club and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to help develop Indian football especially in the skill development areas.

Kenyon arrived in India on Monday morning and met the AIFF general secretary Alberto Colaco and Indian national team coach Bob Houghton in Goa. In a press briefing Kenyon mentioned that India’s economic rise as a global powerhouse cannot be ignored.

“Indian football is better structured and there are exciting developments happening in this part of the world and I-League for sure is one of them,” Kenyon was quoted saying.

On being asked the subject of his discussions with the Indian FA, Kenyon said, “There have been no specific areas of discussion but, as a club, we have a series of skills areas we would like to explore.”

The 54 year old also pointed that nothing has been formalized with the Indian FA as they two organizations are looking at a long term tie-up.

This is Kenyon’s third visit in a year or so to India. He first came in November last year alongwith the then Mayor of London Ken Livingstone.
Kenyon had then requested the AIFF to ‘identify various areas in which Chelsea to work with the AIFF and the clubs’, according to Mr.Colaco.

Indian national team coach Bob Houghton was pleased with the talks with the Chelsea boss. “They (Chelsea) are a great example of big football while India is developing football world and we ought to derive maximum benefit from them as it can set a great example for football in India.”

Source:Goal.com

Governor's Gold Cup: Meet Baichung Bhutia's Mentor!

Mr. Karma Bhutia is one hell of a multi-tasker. He's the vice president of the Sikkim FA, works for the government, runs a football club, and somewhere in between also finds time to play mentor to footballing superstars. Goal.com managed to catch up with him for a brief chat on Baichung, his club, and the foreigners who play for them...

It was indeed an honour to be face-to-face with a man of his stature, someone who’s been an ardent football and sports enthusiast all his life, and a man who’s played such a big role in giving the country it’s first real football superstar.

If you didn’t already know, Mr. Karma Bhutia was Baichung Bhutia’s mentor throughout his younger days, and was the one who brought him to Kolkata at the tender age of 16, to give wings to his already fledging football career. However, he’s also one of the most modest individuals you would ever come across, and refuses to talk about himself.

When I ask him about his role in Baichung’s development, all he says is “It’s all about the player, his hard work, and his potential. I’d taken a big risk in bringing him to Kolkata at such a young age, but Baichung’s maturity ensured that he succeeded.”

On the topic of Baichung, almost all Indian football fans watched the game in Munich where our very own skipper rubbed shoulders with the likes of Seedorf, Ballack, and Van Persie among others, and even scored twice during the 90 minutes. He adds, “It’s been an age old dream of mine to see Baichung play in Europe. I had gone with him to Munich for the Goal4Africa game, and it was almost as if my dreams became reality then and there.”

Mr. Bhutia, who works for the government in the capacity of a principal chief engineer and also is the Vice President of the Sikkim FA, was one of the founders of the famous Boys Club in Sikkim in 1988, where Baichung played as a youngster. Presently, he’s the Technical Director of the United Sikkim Sports Club (USSC), the team that sprung a surprise by ousting the more accomplished Simla Youngs in the qualifying round of the Governor’s Gold Cup, and went down fighting in the pre-quarters.

The USSC also has Baichung as one of its board members, and does its bit for the development of young players in the region. The team comprises mainly of local young talent, but also stars as many as four Nigerians, brought in for the tournament. He points out, “Our focus will always be the development of local players, but we needed a little experience and that zing to do well in this tournament, so we brought them in. They are very talented, and are at par with other Nigerians playing all over the country. Moreover, our players learn so much from them everyday, that it’s a part of their development as players. If we can create another 4-5 Baichung’s, there’ll be nothing like it.”

He goes on to hail the impact the Nigerians have had on his team, and Indian football in general, and commends their attitude towards the sport, despite having grown up in harsh and difficult conditions. “The conditions in Nigeria aren’t easy to become a professional sportsman, but these lads have shown great attitude and hard work in getting till here. And contrary to public perception, they are disciplined and professional in their approach.”

Speaking of Nigerians, if there’s one who’s made a telling impact on Indian football, it has to be Chima Okorie. The former Mohun Bagan player was a fans’ favourite in Kolkata, and Mr. Bhutia tells us that it was more of the same in Sikkim, if not more! “Chima was always loved here immensely, no matter who he played for. In fact, I remember, on one occasion, he was red carded in a game here, and the entire state went up in protest. Needless to say, the red card was later revoked!”

If there’s one thing you can sense when meeting Mr. Karma Bhutia, it’s that he has that burning desire to help Indian football, and create more Baichung’s, who can take India to the next level. His administrative, tactical, and managerial expertise has seen many talented players been produced from the state, but he still as modest and humble as ever, constantly pondering over what Indian football needs, and what role he could play in providing just that.

Source:Goal.com

Governor's Gold Cup: Three Star Coach Eyes Revenge

Revenge will be top in the list of priorities for Nepal club Three Star when they face a rampaging Tata Football Academy (TFA) in a mouth-watering semi-final match of the 30th All India Governor’s Gold Cup football tournament on 23rd October at the Paljor Stadium.

“We lost to TFA in 2005 here and this time, we want to get our revenge”, said Upendra Man Singh, Three Star coach.

The prospects of paying back to TFA looks more bright with the Nepal side coach seeking reinforcements from Kathmandu.

“Our six regular players who were doing national duty in the tournament in Malaysia returned today back to Kathmandu and I am trying to get them here for the semi-finals,” informed the coach.

Hampered by the absence of the above six regulars, the Three Star coach had fielded a junior team with most of the players below 17 years in today’s quarterfinals against a physical BSF side.

The Nepal club walked past the BSF team by two goals to one evoking a happy response from the coach.

“Full credit goes to our junior boys. They proved that they can match our senior players and won the hearts of the Sikkimese people with their game”, said Singh.

A fuming BSF coach Avatar Singh barked a stern ‘no comments’ when asked for his comments on his side’s loss. A wrestling style dumping his chair to his disappointed players at the end of the game summed up his poor sportsmanship.

Source:Goal.com

Governor's Gold Cup: Three Star Enter Semis

Nepal’s top club Three Star successfully landed in the roaring cauldron of the 30th All India Governor’s Gold Cup by running past a clueless Border Security Force (BSF) 2-1 in their first outing at the Paljor Stadium.

The first steps towards the coveted Cup were firmly planted thanks to a lion hearted display by the junior players of Three Star in today’s victory.

To boost its chances, the Nepal club is calling for more senior legs from Kathmandu for their semi-final clash against a rampaging Tata Football Academy (TFA) on October 23.

As expected, any match involving Nepal clubs fetches a capacity crowd in the 20,000 seater Paljor Stadium and today was no exception. Gangtokians gave up their afternoon to throng the stadium and root for their favourite team.

In the quickest goal of the tournament, Rupesh KC gave the lead to Three Star in the first minute even as the BSF players and the crowds were just settling in. The lanky central midfielder was given all the time and space to glance his header into the far corner of the net from a Pukar Gahatraj free-kick. His goal triggered wild celebrations among the largely partisan crowd and set them in the right mood.

Consisting mostly of under-17 players, the Nepal side were not let down by its junior players who were not afraid to take on the more physically superior BSF players.

Given no space, the BSF team relied on the long balls in order to pass over the faster Nepal players and made its first attempt on the goal in the 35th minute. Avinash Thapa’s looping shot just dropped outside the bar. The first half ended in 1-0 with the scoreline in favour of the Nepal side.

The BSF team came back strongly after the break and was able to break the Nepal defence repeatedly in the first 15 minutes. However, the Nepal side managed to weather the storm and then gradually changed momentum towards the rival’s goal.

BSF winger Banti Singh made a searing run down the right flank against the run of play and side stepped past two defenders before delivering a low cross to Avinash Thapa waiting in the penalty box. Thapa coolly volleyed the cross past the Three Star goalkeeper stunning the crowd.

BSF’s joy was short-lived as five minutes later Three Star defender Sobindra Shrestha curled a free-kick into the net for the winning goal.

Source:Goal.com

Indian managers eye ACL seminar

KUALA LUMPUR: Managers from 10 I-League teams are looking forward to enhancing professionalism within their clubs by attending next week’s AFC ACL General Managers Seminar here.

The seminar is aimed at helping Member Associations and clubs keen on taking part in next year’s revamped AFC Champions League competition to become more professional and efficient.

Next year’s professional league is only open to associations and clubs that have met stringent AFC criteria regarding professionalism, commercial viability, stadiums and fan base.

Mumbai FC, currently second in the I-League, is one of the Indian teams hoping to become part of Asia’s biggest club tournament next season.

Manager Henry Menezes was quoted by the Times of India as saying: “This seminar would definitely be an eye-opener for us. It's important if we want to develop the game in India. We have to understand how to run a club on professional lines.”

Sukhwinder Singh, manager of fifth-placed JCT, added: “Definitely, the seminar will increase our knowledge on how to work with a pro club.”

Also attending the October 28-29 seminar in Kuala Lumpur will be Jose Custodio, manager of AFC Cup semi-finalists Dempo.

Apart from India, team managers from Australia, China, Iran, Japan, South Korea, Qatar, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Thailand, UAE, Uzbekistan and Vietnam are expected to participate in the seminar.

Source:The AFC.com

Vital week for Pro League hopefuls

AFC Champions League

KUALA LUMPUR: An important milestone in the run-up to next year’s revamped AFC Champions League (ACL) will be reached over the next seven days when top officials from Asia’s leading clubs take part in two ground-breaking seminars.

Over the weekend, 36 officials will attend the AFC Local General Coordinator Seminar at AFC House, aimed at enhancing the standard of match operations in the ACL and other AFC competitions.

This will act as a warm-up to the main event, the ACL General Managers Seminar at the PJ Hilton, on October 28 and 29, featuring 163 officials representing the elite clubs of 14 countries.

The ACL meeting will offer club managers the chance to improve the administration of their own clubs in terms of professionalism and efficiency.

They will also learn about marketing, communications, general management and other aspects of running a football club.

It is hoped that the managers will apply this knowledge in their home leagues and help their clubs and national leagues satisfy the criteria to take part in next season’s ACL.

There are 14 countries who have complied with first-phase requirements for the ACL. They are: Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Korea Republic, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, United Arab Emirates and Uzbekistan.

However, not all 14 are guaranteed places in the 2009 ACL, often referred to as the Asian Pro League.

AFC will give clubs until the middle of December to meet the required criteria, failing which they will be unable to participate in the elite tournament. It is understood that, so far, seven countries have reached the standards.

Source:The AFC.com

Afonso: Early goals Dempo’s undoing

Dempo's assistant coach Mauricio Afonso (right) blamed poor start for his team's defeat at the hands of Safa.

HYDERABAD – Dempo assistant coach Mauricio Afonso was left ruing a poor start by his side on Tuesday as the Indian league champions missed out on a spot in the AFC Cup final after going down 4-1 to Safa.

The Lebanese side held a narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg in Beirut but Mohammad Kassas netted twice in the first 17 minutes to effectively kill of the tie for the visitors.

Congolese striker Mboyo Iyomi pulled a goal back just after the hour to reward a period of intense pressure by the home side but Kassas then turned provider for Hussain Tahan to add Safa's third in the last minute before the substitute matched the achievement of his team-mate by scoring his second of the night four minutes into stoppage-time as the Lebanese side sailed into the AFC Cup final with a 5-1 aggregate win.

“The early goal really upset our plans tonight,” said a disappointed Afonso.

“At 1-0, we still had a chance but after conceding two goals in the first 20 minutes, it was very difficult to come back.

“Safa forced us into making mistake and based on their performance today, they deserve to be in the final.

“They are a good side although we matched them in the second half and gave them a hard time. However, our defenders made some bad errors and they have to take some responsibility for our defeat.”

Safa coach Samir Saad was naturally delighted to see his game plan work to perfection as the team from Lebanon marched through to the final with an unbeaten record.

“The early goals made all the difference for us today,” said Saad

“Our plan was to keep the game tight and to hit them on the counterattack and it ended up working out perfectly for us.”

Safa became the first Lebanese club to reach the AFC Cup final since Al Nejmeh in 2005 and will be hoping to go one better than their Beirut rivals, who lost 4-2 on aggregate to Jordan’s Al Faisaly.

Source:The AFC.com

Safa storm into AFC Cup final

Dempo's Mahesh Gawli (left) and Safa's Khodr Salame go for a header during their AFC Cup semi-final second leg match in Hyderabad on Tuesday.

HYDERABAD – Mohammad Kassas and substitute Hussain Tahan scored two goals each as Lebanese side Safa secured their place in the AFC Cup final with an emphatic 4-1 win over Dempo at Gachibowli Stadium on Tuesday.

Safa led 1-0 from the first leg in Beirut and Kassas extended their advantage after only nine minutes before scoring his second of the game ten minutes later.

Congolese striker Mboyo Iyomi gave the Indian side some hope by pulling a goal back just after the hour but Tahan struck twice in the dying minute to send Safa through 5-1 on aggregate.

Safa held a narrow advantage thanks to Hamze Aboud’s last-minute strike two weeks ago and the hosts went on the offensive from the opening whistle as they attempted to get back on level terms, creating the first chance after seven minutes when Anthony Pereira’s powerful volley went wide.

However, it was the visitors who opened the scoring two minutes later when Rony Azar’s free-kick was met by Kassas, who headed his side ahead.

Needing three goals to retrieve the tie, Dempo surged forward in attack, leaving huge gaps at the back. Safa took full advantage in the 19th minute as Kassas capitalised of a defensive error and went past three defenders before firing home a powerful shot from inside the area.

Dempo would not throw in the towel despite the three-goal deficit and head coach Armando Colaco brought in Joaquim Santan for Nicolau Borges at half-time, a move which paid dividends as the hosts started to create good opportunities in the second half.

The Dempo pressure paid off one minute after the hour when Iyomi received a long ball from the back, chesting the ball down and beating two defenders before firing past Safa goalkeeper Nazih Tay.

The home side should have levelled the score on the night a minute later when Ranti Martins fired a powerful shot on goal which was well stopped by Tay at full stretch.

Dempo continued to exert strong pressure and thought they had pulled another goal back in the dying minutes when Iyomi headed in only to see his effort ruled out for offside.

The visitors added to the score line in the final minute when Tahan turned in a cross by Kassas from close range to make it 3-1 before the substitute struck again with a header deep into stoppage time to cap a memorable night for the Lebanese side.

Source:The AFC.com

Houghton's blueprint for Indian football

National football coach Bob Houghton has suggested that the Indian domestic structure be revamped further to continue the progress made by the team since his tenure began 27 months ago.

As per the blueprint submitted to the All India Football Federation, Houghton wants tournaments like the century-old Durand Cup in Delhi [Images] to be played during the pre-season between July and August, so that teams can use it as a preparatory ground ahead of the I-League's September start.

"The structure of domestic football needs to be changed further if India needs to compete well at the international level," Houghton said.

"We have qualified for the 2011 Asian Cup. Two days ago our under-16 team finished in the top 12 in Asia. Our I-League team (Dempo) is in the semi-finals of the AFC Cup. We now need to look ahead," the Englishman said in Mumbai on Friday.

The AIFF has already implemented Houghton's idea of holding I-League matches concurrently with the state league between September 2008 and April 2009, but from the next season the plan given by the national coach envisages nine months of I-League with matches conducted on week-ends only.

"From the 2009-10 season the I-League and state leagues need to be conducted concurrently from September to May with the I-League ties only on Saturdays and Sundays and state league matches on Wednesdays and Thursdays," he said.

Houghton said he has already had discussions on this issue with Mumbai clubs on Thursday and he'll proceed to Kolkata next for taking up the matter with the clubs there before meeting representatives of the clubs in Goa [Images], where he is based.

"In order to go forward it's very important that we get a connect in the whole of Indian football," he said.

Emphasising the importance of the national league and the state leagues, which he said would serve as a feeder system, to work closely, Houghton said that for a country to become better at the international level a strong domestic league is vital.

Houghton said that the state leagues could use under-19 and under-16 players more and give sufficient rest to I-League players who are not allowed to play in the next state league tie if they had turned out for more than 45 minutes in the previous I-League match.

"From the next season the I-League should see 14 or 16 teams so that they get to play 26 or 30 matches each," he said.

"We also need to conduct the Federation Cup, which is the main qualifying tournament for events at the Asian level, but not in the way it has been conducted so far by which some teams get only one match to play before they get eliminated.

"The idea is that the preliminary rounds are played with the teams divided into groups of four each," he said, adding, "This is a much better structure for Indian football."

Houghton said he plans to conduct a national camp from January 2-16, 2009 in Dubai during the course of which the Indian team may play one friendly match.

"In July 2009 we have the Nehru Cup, then the World Cup qualifiers (for 2014 finals) in December 2010, followed by the Olympic [Images] qualifiers in February, 2011 and then the Asia Cup in June 2011," Houghton elaborated.

The national coach said India should target the 2018 World Cup with their current under-19, under-16 and under-13 players in mind.

"This is 2008, we have seven years to prepare for the 2015 qualifiers," he declared.

Source:Rediff.com

AFC Cup: Let Us Play Our Natural Game - Climax

Dempo skipper Climax Lawrence feels that his side could have come back with a 0-0 draw against Safa in Lebanon had they not played defensive in the second half.

The Indian champions conceded in the last minute of the second session in Lebanon and Climax rues the defensive style.

“In the first half at Lebanon, we played very well. In the second half, the team got defensive and hence we allowed them to score. Had we played our natural game, we could have come with a 0-0 scoreline,” said the Indian international.

The central medio opines that if his side play naturally they can definitely enter the finals of the AFC Cup.

“We must naturally and with confidence. No fear.”

Dempo will miss Clifford Miranda in the game due to double booking but Climax feels that the substitutes are also of an equal quality at Dempo.

“Nicolau played against Vasco in the last game and he played in earlier AFC Cup games as well. At Dempo, whoever comes in the starting XI is capable of producing the desired goods.”

Climax feels that the weather could play a factor and favour the Indian side.

“The match start at 4 p.m. and I am sure that they will find it tough to adjust.”

Source:Goal.com

AFC Cup: Safa Are Physically Strong - Ranti

Dempo striker Ranti Martins may have drawn criticism for not hitting the top form yet after having played a crucial part in the club’s qualification from the group stage, but the Nigerian isn’t worried as long as his side wins.

The Nigerian striker hasn’t been at his lethal best but he scored the winner in Dempo’s last game in the I-League more than a week back.

Speaking on the clash against Safa, Ranti said, “The confidence is high. We have to get the result though it won’t be easy.”

Ranti feels that the 1-0 scoreline in the first leg should have been kept 0-0 as that would automatically have put the pressure on the Lebanese side.

“It was disappointing not to have come with a 0-0 scoreline. Safa are a physically strong side but as professionals, we have got to fight it out there.”

Beto has been on the recovering process and Ranti feels that the Brazilian would start the game.

“I feel Beto should be fine and will start.”

Source:Goal.com

AFC Cup: Mahesh Seeks Past Inspiration

Ahead of the key clash against Safa later today, Dempo defender Mahesh Gawli has asked his team-mates to seek inspiration from their past results in the AFC Cup.






“Earlier, we have beaten some of the good oppositions like Al Muharraq and most recently Home United. If we play against Safa as we did against them, then I am sure we shall reach the finals,” said the best defender India has produced in recent times.

Gawli isn’t underestimating Safa and gives them due credit for winning the first leg.

“I don’t underestimate any opposition, so what to speak of Safa? They are a great side and played well to win the first leg.”

Dempo are without goalkeeper Abhijit Mondal who was injured in their opening I-League clash against JCT in Goa. He also missed the first leg in Lebanon and Sathish Kumar shall take on the mantle today as well.

“We have good custodians and there is not much to choose between them. Sathish, Abhijit and Tyson are all very up to the mark.”

Source:Goal.com

AFC Cup: Beto To Start - Afonso

Dempo assistant coach Mauricio Afonso mentioned that star midfielder Beto would start against Lebanese outfit Safa in today’s AFC Cup semi-final at the Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad.

Roberto Mendes Silva or ‘Beto’, as he is popularly known as, suffered a shoulder injury in a third round I-League encounter against Vasco more than a week back where the Brazilian scored one in his side’s 2-1 victory.

Speaking to Goal.com, Mauricio Afonso said,”Beto has been recovering well and he did practice with the team. I feel we would start with Beto. He should be fine till then.”

The Brazilian player is a vital cog in Dempo’s success and his presence is imperative for the side. The Goan side are already without goalkeeper Abhijit Mondal due to injury and winger Clifford Miranda who is on double booking.

“Nicolau would come in for Clifford and Sathish Kumar for Abhijit. Sathish also played in the first leg.”

Dempo lost the first leg of the semi-finals in Lebanon 1-0 and this puts the pressure on the Indian champions.

“Yes, the pressure is certainly on us. Had it been 0-0 in Lebanon it would have been a different story. But we hope to put on a good show and get the desired result.”

Dempo weren’t allowed to host the quarter-finals game in their home stadium in Goa as it didn’t have floodlights which was one of the essentials mentioned by the AFC. The match against Safa kicks-off at 1600 hrs IST. So, couldn’t the game be played back in Goa instead of Hyderabad?

“AFC had asked us for a venue for the quarterfinals and said that floodlights are important. So, the venue was shifted to Hyderabad. Now, the semi-final is a day game and we could have played in Goa but AFC states that we cannot change the venue. “I am sure that the stadium in Goa would have been full house,” said Afonso.

In their bid to create a homely atmosphere, they have transported fans from Goa in seven buses.

Meanwhile, the Gachibowli stadium is in good condition though it has been raining in Hyderabad for the past several days. Rain is known to play a spoilsport in Hyderabad when they AFC Challenge Cup finals had to be shifted to Delhi owing to unplayable conditions.

“The pitch is ok. It has been raining but the important factor is that no matches have been played on this ground.”

Source:Goal.com

AFC Cup: Undefeated Safa Look To Continue Fine Form

Undefeated so far in the AFC Cup, Safa coach Samir Saad was a confident man and expressed his surprise on reaching the semi-finals in their debut year in the premier competition.

Lebanese club Safa have been in top form in the AFC Cup and are coming off a 5-0 thrashing of Malaysia’s Perak in the second leg of the quarterfinals.

“The experience of playing the AFC Cup has been very good for us. It is our first time participating so we did not think that we would get this far in he tournament because we didn’t know what to expect when the tournament began,” said Saad.

Safa coach was optimistic on his team’s chances of making it to the finals of the AFC Cup.

“We haven’t lost a single match so far in our run and I’m hoping that we can maintain that record as I’m looking forward to getting into the final.

“I respect Dempo a lot and they truly deserve to be in the semi-final although the pressure will be on them because they are a goal down in the tie.”

Safa are to miss midfielder Amer Khan due to suspension.

Source:Goal.com

AFC Cup: Biggest Game As A Coach - Dempo Coach

Dempo coach Armando Colaco insisted that his side are confident of making it into the final two of the AFC Cup as they face Lebanon’s Safa FC in the second leg of the semi-finals at the Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad.

Speaking to Goal.com, Mr.Colaco said, “The confidence is high and the preparations have been good. We want to win and begin a new chapter in Indian football.”

Dempo lost the first eg 1-0 away two weeks back and want to make amends for the mistakes in Lebanon. Midfielder Roberto Mendes Silva, a.k.a ‘Beto’, isn’t completely fit but the Goan coach states he would wait for him till the last minute.

“He is recovering but we shall take him to the ground and see there.”

Armando Colaco also mentioned this game as the biggest as a coach.

“I have coached Dempo in one international tournament but this one is certainly greater than that.”

Source:Goal.com

Governor's Gold Cup: Three Star To Take On BSF Today

The much anticipated team, Three Star from Nepal has landed in Sikkim and gets straightaway involved in a mouth-watering contest between a formidable BSF team in tomorrow’s quarterfinals of the 30th All India Governor’s Gold Cup being played here at Paljor Stadium.

Three Star club is a major crowd puller here in this Himalayan state. The team had reached finals in the last edition of Gold Cup and was defeated by its bitter rival NRT, another Nepal club.

This time, it is up to Three Star to keep the Nepal flag flying high in the premier tournament in the entire Eastern Himalayan region. However, Nepal’s challenge does not look sharper compared to last year as six regular players of Three Star are currently on national duty.

“Our six main players are playing for the national team in Merdeka Cup at Malaysia. But we have brought talented junior players who are playing or knocking the doors of the national team”, said Upendra Man Singh, the coach of the Three Star club.

“The players are the best in Nepal and have played many matches”, he added.

Upendra himself a former goalie with the Nepal national side has played on four occasions in the Gold Cup and this time he is coming back as a coach.

On their tomorrow’s opponents, Upendra said: “BSF is traditionally counted as a good team. It would have helped us if we had got a chance to see them in their previous match”.

Boosting the morale of Three Star club, a Nepal MP has also arrived along with the team to pep up the players. Raj Kazi Maharjan, an MP from Lalitpur constituency expressed his hopes that the Nepal club will reach the finals. He has specially escorted the Three Star club to provide his moral support.

Source:Goal.com

Governor's Gold Cup: Cheema Blasts His Players

New Delhi Heroes coach Cheema Okerie blasted his players for their woeful display in today's 2-1 loss against Titanium Kerala.

"Our boys did not play even 30 percent of their normal game. We had the game in hand but we gifted two goals to the opposition", said a fuming Okerie after the match.

Okerie was particular severe on his goalkeeper Joby Joseph who committed a blunder in the first goal the team conceded.

On the other hand, Titanium coach Rajeev Kumar gave credit to New Delhi Heroes for putting a good display.

"They were the better side. It was our first match in these unfamiliar conditions here at Sikkim but our boys played well", he said.

“My boys will play much better in the semis,” added Kumar.

Titanium must give a better performance in the semis as they run into a formidable Army XI, their Southern neighbours. Army XI is based at Bangalore and have beaten Kerala clubs in the recent past.

“We give Army XI lot of respect.”

Source:Goal.com

Governor's Gold Cup: Kumar Creating Waves In Gold Cup

As the 30th All India Governor's Gold Cup football tournament being played here at Paljor Stadium enters into semi-finals in the next two days, several stars have bitten the dust while new players have come good in this premier tournament in the Northeast.

Among these new boys knocking the doors of top league clubs, Tata Football Academy (TFA) playmaker Subodh Kumar is the bright face of a rising Indian football scenario. In his two matches, Kumar has attracted much attention with his punishing runs and plays all over the pitch.

Always on the move, this pint sized player hounds the opposition forwards, harasses the defense and virtually controls the midfield covering the entire length and breadth of the field. This game style of the hardworking Kumar was much noticed during yesterday's crucial game against DKKKS, a Bangladesh club.

TFA cruised past the Bangladesh side by four goals to nil and entered into the semis of the Gold Cup. A large credit goes to Kumar in this easy victory.

The 18 year old TFA lad dominated the midfield and nipped potential dangers in the bud. Despite his short size by football standards, Kumar was more than a match to the tall Bangladesh players.

Even as the Bangladesh team tried to attack (which were few) down the flanks, Kumar was always there to assist the back four and shepherd the ball out of danger to launch sweeping moves into the rival's box.

Most of the attacking moves originated from Kumar's boots and the fourth goal resulted due to his brilliant effort in the 85th minute. Kumar lashed onto a wayward clearance from DKKKS defence and ran into the rival's box taking two defenders along with him. Instead of sending a cross to his team-mates waiting on the right side, Kumar then coolly back-heeled the ball to the unmarked Robin Singh whose left footer crashed into the net.

"We were playing as per our coach (Ranjan Chowdhury) strategy which was to give no breathing space. We played pressing football and always snatched the ball away from the opposition team", said Kumar after the match.

Kumar, who is into his third year with TFA, has already represented India in the national U-19 football team. He proudly recollected his goals against Lebanon and Oman in the AFC games.

Comparing the two games he played in the Gold Cup, Kumar said that he and his team mates could not have played better in the first match.

"It is always difficult to play in the first game,” he said.

“But today we played as per the game plan.”

Kumar is from Ranchi and dreams of making to the Indian senior football squad.

"I want to play for the Indian football team", he said.

Source:Goal.com

Governor's Gold Cup: Titanium Beat New Delhi Heroes

Titanium captain Usman poked his team to a 2-1 victory over New Delhi Heroes in today's match here at Paljor Stadium to clinch a semi-final berth in the 30th All India Governor's Gold Cup football tournament.

With both teams deadlocked in the 1-1 draw, Usman scrambled past his marker to direct a cross into the net for the deciding goal in the 55th minute. Titanium winger Rajeev had provided the cross after a fine run down the right flank.

Stung by the goal, New Delhi Heroes made several attempts to find the equalizer for the second time in the match but was thwarted by Kerala defense especially by the bulky stopper Shabeer.

It was Shabeer who had given the lead to the Kerala side in the 16th minute when his free kick from near the centre line was let in by the New Delhi goalkeeper Joby Joseph. The goalkeeper mistimed his save and dived over the shot gifting the Kerala side the lead.

New Delhi Heroes came back to the game in the dying minutes of the first half. It was Shabeer again who was involved in the equalizer. The giant central defender needlessly dumped New Delhi Heroes striker Itaeu in the box conceding a penalty which was promptly booted home by Manoj Joshi.

However, Titanium coach Rajeev Kumar had the last laugh over his former rival Cheema Okerie who was the coaching the New Delhi Heroes.

Titanium now runs against a formidable Army XI in the first semi-final match on October 22.

Source:Goal.com

Dempo undeterred by deficit

HYDERABAD – Dempo assistant coach Mauricio Afonso insisted his team will not change their approach despite needing to overturn a one-goal deficit in the second leg of their AFC Cup semi-final tie against Safa.

Hamze Aboud’s last-minute strike in Beirut two weeks ago handed the initiative to the Lebanese side but the mood at Dempo is one of confidence as they aim to become the first club from India to reach the final.

“We’ll play our normal game although we are under a little pressure after going a goal down in the first day,” said Afonso, who spoke in the absence of ill head coach Armando Colaco.

“We cannot afford to be defensive. We have to go out and attack them because we must score two goals to win the tie.

“But we have not played since October 12 so we are well rested and ready for the challenge.”

Goalkeeper Abhijit Mondal did not travel to Hyderabad due to a back injury while Brazilian midfielder Roberto Mendes Silva is doubtful with a shoulder problem and Clifford Miranda is suspended after picking up his second yellow card in the knockout stage.

”The rest of the team are in good shape but with three players out, it will be difficult for our team particularly in midfield without Miranda and Roberto,” added Afonso.

“But it is the team effort that counts so we have to pull together and not rely too much on individual players.”

Despite being designated as their ‘home’ game, the Goa-based club have been forced to play the second leg in Hyderabad, 800 kilometres away due to the unsuitability of the Nehra Stadium.

“We won’t have too many supporters to cheer us on,” admitted Afonso

“I would be the happiest man coach if we do make it to the final.

“No Indian club has even the reached semi-finals before so to reach the final would be a tremendous achievement for us.”

Safa arrived in Hyderabad on Saturday and will be missing midfielder Amer Khan for the clash through suspension.

Safa have yet to lose a game in their AFC Cup debut, racking up five 7-0 aggregate demolition of Malaysian side Perak in the quarter-finals.

“The experience of playing AFC Cup has been very good for us. It is our first time participating so we did not think that we would get this far in the tournament because didn’t know what to expect when the tournament began,” boss Samir Saad said.

“We haven’t lost a single match so far in our run and I’m hoping that we can maintain that record as I’m looking forward to getting to the final.

“I respect Dempo a lot and they truly deserve to be in the semi-final although the pressure will be on them because they are a goal down in the tie.”


Source:The AFC.com

Annual installment to Indian football

New Delhi, October 20 Wung United play only one tournament a year but the Manipur club has provided ample players to big teams For Wung United, change is the only constant. The defending champions of the RN Tamchon Trophy have only one thing in common, year after year — their impeccable performance in this tournament, the only one the club plays in every year. The team composition keeps changing and team officials move on to other things apart from football, allowing another set of faces to take centrestage — all this, for some exposure and in search of greener pastures.

On Monday, they entered the semi-finals of the 2008 edition, thrashing DMZP 3-1 at the Ambedkar Stadium. And this when they are not officially registered as a club, something they do not seem too concerned about. “I have heard people call our club and the tournament a ‘local’ one. The basic idea behind the tournament is to highlight the talent of the North-East,”says this year’s team manager Apan Shimray, who earns a living teaching English Literature at Jamia Milia Islamia University. “Apart from the infrastructural and financial shortcomings, what we really miss is the media coverage back home. Now, we have seventeen Delhi-based players out of the 22,” he adds.

The team has scored six goals in four matches compared to 25 goals in six matches last year and is without six of their main players from last year, but Shimray is not upset. On the contrary, he is proud of the six who are absent — since they are all playing for bigger clubs.

“Duidong was picked by Mohammedan Sporting of Kolkata while Ninglei and N Shimrah joined Churchill Brothers. Achan Keising is now playing for a Mumbai club after a few coaches and officials from these clubs spotted them. That’s the purpose of this tournament,” adds Shimray.

One of the six was Sochungmi Raleng, the highest scorer for Services in Santosh Trophy 2008 and currently on a one-year contract with I-League debutants Chirag United. “He (Raleng) was playing for Army XI and then we arranged for his participation in the RM Tamchon Trophy last year. He scored thirteen of the twenty-five goals that we scored.

Three months later, he went to become the highest scorer at the Santosh Trophy and now he is in the main striker for Chirag United,” Shimray adds.

Coach Edmund Hungshi says co-ordination is not an issue. “We prepare in advance through the thirteen units that monitor students from the North-East in various colleges of Delhi University. Then, the sports union of various institutions gives us the best opportunity to finalise,” he says.

Hungshi’s own identity gives an idea what Wung United’s identity is all about. After introducing himself as a former u-14 representative for Manipur, he reveals that he is also a Zakir Hussain College pass-out and has been a coach for two years at Apex School.

And after October 25th (the final day of the tournament), he will go back to studies — reading a few preparatory books on Civil Services. In the other quarter-final on Monday, Sinlung HSA FC beat Chandel United 2-1.

Source:Expressindia.com

Chelsea CEO Kenyon meets AIFF officials in Goa

PANAJI: Chelsea chief executive officer Peter Kenyon arrived in Goa on Monday and was received by AIFF secretary Alberto Colaco who said the visit would hopefully help cement a relationship with the English Premier League giants.

Colaco also said there's no agenda involved but talks will be held on the overall development of the game in the country.

"We are having a discussion right now. There will be an unofficial interaction with the media tomorrow," Colaco, who is in Goa now, said.

The world's highest paid CEO's visit is aimed at understanding Indian football and to develop the relationship between Chelsea and AIFF.

Senior national team coach Bob Houghton, who cut short his visit to Kolkata to be here for the meeting, met Kenyon along with AIFF officials and those from the Bharti Group to chart out a comprehensive development programme.

Chelsea were the first major team to sign an agreement with the Asian Football Confederation as official football development partner of AFC's Vision China project.

Source:Timesofindia.com

Exclusive: Lyon Official Met AIFF

French club Olympique Lyonnais were in India last week and held talks with the officials of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in Delhi, Goal.com exclusively reveals

The director of marketing Olympique Lyon Mr.Mathieu Malkani met AIFF general secretary Mr.Alberto Colaco last week.

A official from the Indian FA confirmed the same on anonymous grounds and said, “Yes, Lyon were here last week. “They had basically come to understand what Indian football was all about and explore opportunities. India is a growing market and they showed their eagerness to know what was happening in this part of the world.

“At the same time, we got to know more about French football and Ligue 1.”

Lyon are the current Ligue 1 champions and have won seven straight league titles, a feat unmatched in French football.

Source:Goal.com

Novel Ways Of Promotion - Music

The Governor’s Gold Cup has kicked-off and the Sikkim FA has come out with novel ways to attract the crowds by having a theme song for the tournament which is very youthful and appealing. This is certainly a lesson for the people who run the I-League. Are you there?

The north-eastern region is known for its love for football and rock music. Every second fellow on the street would have played football and would be talking of Metallica and Jimi Hendrix.

The media manager for the Governor’s Gold Cup Mr.Shyam Pradhan had this in mind when he asked his sons – Girish and Yogesh to come up with a song.

“I asked Yogesh that can we do something and he composed the music instantly. Girish wrote the lyrics and lent his voice to the song. It was all done in a couple of days,” informs Mr.Pradhan.

The song was released way back in 2003-04 season when the Governor’s Gold Cup returned to the Paljor Stadium which underwent renovation for four years.

Since then, football fans in Sikkim have been humming this song at the stadiums as it has been advertised aggressively on the local TV and radio channels.

“The lyrics are Football my name, football my game, football my pride, football my passion…,” said Yogesh.

And what got the two brothers to come out with this song?

“We are musicians and this was part of our metal band Anarchy,” adds Yogesh, who is an audio engineering student and now is part of another band called ‘Carnage’.

Does the I-League have a song of its own? Not that I have heard of…

Source:Goal.com

Governor's Gold Cup: Striker vs Keeper Once Again!

Chima Okorie will face up to old adversary Rajiv Kumar as both men try to guide their respective sides into the semi finals of the Governor's Gold Cup...

Former bitter adversaries (on the field), Cheema Okeri and Rajiv Kumar will be plotting each other once more as their respective teams New Delhi Heroes and Titanium (Kerala) clash on Monday at Paljor Stadium here for a semifinal berth in the 30th All India Governor's Gold Cup football tournament.

Cheema is coaching New Delhi Heroes while Kumar is coaching the Kerala side. Speaking to reporters, Kumar recollected how he and Cheema always used to play against each other right from the university level. "I was the goalkeeper for my university and club, Titanium while Cheema used to play against me from Mohan Bagan. We used to compete against each other as players and now we are playing each other as coaches. We have a lot of respect for each other", said Kumar.

Commenting on his team, the Titanium coach said that it's a basically a young side. The odds are pitted against the Kerala side as it is their first match in the tournament. "The climatic conditions here in Sikkim are completely different from Kerala and also it our first match", Kumar said.

Meanwhile, New Delhi Heroes coach Cheema was his usual cool self when asked to comment on tomorrow's game against Titanium. "There are no special preparations whatsoever and we are going to be our normal self for the match against Titanium", he said.

However, Cheema added that his team is very unfamiliar with the Kerala side. "I have no clue what their team looks like. But If we play 30 percent better than our last game, I think we will win. We could not play better football in our previous game as it was our first match here in totally different conditions", Cheema said.

Source:Goal.com