AIFF learning from Junior's death

The disciplinary committee of the All India Football Federation may have let off Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Subroto Pal with just a two-month ban for colliding with Dempo striker Christiano Junior, but a new AIFF team on Tuesday announced strict measures to avoid a repeat of the tragic incident in Bangalore.

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AIFF also made it mandatory for all clubs to have a team doctor on board for providing immediate medical assistance.

"All the participating teams have to sign the agreement to ensure the best behaviour and well conduct of the players," AIFF President Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi said.

"Those not agreeing to sign will have their matches shifted to neutral venues," he said.

On the lack of medical care at the venues, another reason blamed for Junior's death at the Sri Kanteerava Stadium in Bangalore on December 5, Dasmunsi annnounced new steps to address the issue.

"It will now be mandatory for NFL clubs to have a doctor.

Also the venues will have to have all required medical facilities including a fully equipped ambulance. We will depute observers to monitor the arrangements," Dasmunsi said.

Asked whether Junior's death was discussed at the Executive Committee meeting, Dasmunsi said "it was discussed but AIFF has not got any adverse comments from FIFA (soccer's world governing body)."

"As directed by the FIFA Medical Commission, we have sent the scan report of Junior's brain and spine to them."

He also said Junior's organs, which were preserved in Banglaore for further tests, have been despached to his family in Brazil as per their wishes.

And to provide financial help to the player's family, the AIFF has earmarked three NFL matches, the proceeds of which will go to 'Junior Memorial Fund'.