President of the Druk Lhayul FC, Thukten, has been suspended from the BoB Bhutan Premier League for 12 months. The Bhutan Football Federation penalised him for involvement in a physical assault during the club’s match against Thimphu City FC on September 18. Alongside, one of the club’s players Dorji Khandu has been suspended for two matches for violent conduct.
The president of Druk Lhayul FC was handed down a suspension and a fine of Nu 10,000 for physical assault. As per the Match Commissioner Report, Thukten entered the ground without permission when the referee of the match sent off Karma Shedrub of Thimphu City FC and Jomoul Anthony Francois of Druk Lhayul FC in the 87th minute of the game for violent conduct.
Thukten then kicked the fourth official in the right leg and attempted to kick the official again. But he was stopped by one of his officials and DeSuups. The report states his action instigated the spectators to throw bottles at the officials and football staff on the ground which incited violence and hatred.
Moreover, he went to the referee room door and waited for the referee despite being informed repeatedly that he was not permitted to enter the room.
Druk Lhayul FC’s Dorji Khandu was imposed with a fine of Nu 5,000 and has been suspended for two matches for violent conduct. The committee found him stepping intentionally on his opponents during the match.
The committee stated that there is a need for a comprehensive review of protocols and systems in place to address safety arrangements of the players, officials and spectators.
Chenga Dawa
Edited by Phub Gyem