ISL 2017: Jeje Lalpekhlua slams Chennaiyin fan who allegedly racially abused NorthEast United supporter

What's the story?

The Indian Super League (ISL) Season 4 is already shaping up to be an exciting tournament, but as is often the case, an unnecessary and unacceptable incident appears to have marred the entertaining 3-0 win for Chennaiyin FC over NorthEast United FC.

The game itself may have put Chennaiyin back on track in ISL 2017, but an incident during the match has been making headlines. Racist insults were allegedly directed towards NorthEast fans and a video package showing the same has been doing the rounds. Since the horrible incident, many players and stars have been speaking out on the issue, and the latest to do so is Chennaiyin FC's star striker Jeje Lalpekhlua. This is what he had to say:

The incident at the last match is something unacceptable. Players, officials or fans there is no place for racism in football or in any place else. Hope those guilty are of this are found and action is taken.#SayNoToRacism

— jeje lalpekhlua (@jejefanai) November 25, 2017

In case you didn't know...

NorthEast United fans have been threatened and had insults aimed at them and here too, it appears to be the case. The incident has been overwhelmingly condemned by the sporting as well as the entertainment world.

The heart of the matter

The incident brought furore over social media with a large number of people asking for action to be taken against the club for actions of its fans. NorthEast United's owner John Abraham too was very vocal on the issue and promised severe action against those involved. Take a look at his statement below:

Statement: NEUFC stands by the the passionate supporters who faced untoward incident at the Marina Arena in Chennai last night. Here is a brief statement from our owner John Abraham. #Highlanders we are with you. #8States1United pic.twitter.com/ceej8iVvG3

— NorthEast United FC (@NEUtdFC) November 24, 2017

Jeje's latest Facebook post update is also indicative of the fact that players are as affected by the incident as everyone and will not stand for such despicable behaviour. Following an investigation into the matter, it was revealed that one of the fans indulging in the behaviour may have been drunk during.

What's next?

Chennaiyin also released a club statement addressing the issue and that they are looking into the matter to avoid such horrific behaviour ever again.

Author's take

This incident is embarrassing to say the least and highlights the sheer pathetic attitude of those who call themselves "fans". These people are not fans, they are just hooligans.