In West Bengal, the Police arrested Satadru Dutta, organiser of Messi’s event at Salt Lake’s Yuva Bharati Krirangan, after questioning him for two hours, following large-scale chaos and vandalism today. ADG & IGP (Law and Order) Jawed Shamim said, a preliminary investigation is underway into the stadium chaos. He added that the situation is now normal, steps are being taken to help spectators return home, and instructions have been issued for ticket refunds.
Earlier, Governor Dr C V Ananda Bose had directed the West Bengal government to immediately arrest the organisers and sponsors of the event held at Yuva Bharati Krirangan. Expressing anguish over the incident, the Governor termed it a black day for Kolkata’s sports lovers and instructed that ticket money be refunded to spectators.
Meanwhile, the state government has constituted an enquiry committee headed by retired Justice Ashim Kumar Ray to probe the mismanagement. In a social media post, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she was deeply disturbed and shocked by the incident and apologised to the public.
Union Minister of State for Education and BJP leader Dr Sukanta Majumdar criticised the state government, alleging administrative failure and demanding the Chief Minister’s resignation. In a social media post, he said, many fans of Lionel Messi purchased tickets for a glimpse of the legendary football star but due to administrative failure, Messi had to return. Football icon Lionel Messi, who arrived in Kolkata late Friday, entered the stadium around 11:30 am with Luis Suarez and Rodrigo D’Paula. Fans, alleging they were denied a clear view, turned unruly, damaged property, and forced police to resort to a lathi charge.
