Hit by cracker, PTI photojournalist critically injured during IFA Shield final

Kolkata: PTI photojournalist Swapan Mahapatra was critically injured when a firecracker burst near him and its splinter entered his ribcage during the IFA Shield final between Mohammedan Sporting and Sheikh Jamal Dhamnodi at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Saturday.

The splinter has penetrated his lower rib region from the right side. Bleeding profusely after being hit, he was taken to the nearby AMRI Hospital. Doctors attending on him said the splinter was in the right lobe of the liver and a portion of his lungs was also damaged.

The condition of Mahapatra who lost about 1.5 litre of blood was stable but critical. He is under observation for 48 hours.

The doctors ruled out surgery to remove the splinter saying it would be risky.

"It (the splinter) is a sterile object and will dissolve with tissues in due course. Surgery to remove it would be risky," a source said. However, his pulse rate and blood pressure are normal and he is in his senses.

Home favourite Mohammedan Sporting equalised was down 0-1 and when Mehrajuddin Wadoo equalised in the first-half injury time, it sparked jubilation from the 40,000-odd fans. Some of them lighted firecrackers in the stands and one of them burst near the on-duty PTI photojournalist and a splinter entered his body.

In an intense battle, Mohammedan Sporting pipped Dhanmondi Club of Bangladesh 4-3 in the shootout after being locked 1-1 till extra time.

Sports Minister Madan Mitra visited Mahaptra at the hospital and wished his speedy recovery. He said the state government would provide all support to the treatment of the injured photographer.