A fresh twist has emerged in the controversy surrounding last year’s high-profile Lionel Messi event at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata, with a case now being registered against former West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas at the Bidhannagar South Police Station.
The case was filed based on a complaint by event organiser Satadru Dutta, who has alleged irregularities in the conduct of the event, claiming “truth triumphs.” He also expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, current Sports Minister Nisith Pramanik, and the Director General of State Police.
The controversy dates back to December last year, when football icons Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Rodrigo De Paul participated in a widely publicised event at the Kolkata stadium. The programme, which generated massive public interest, was marred by chaos, with allegations of mismanagement, overcrowding, and security lapses after sections of spectators reportedly breached barriers and entered the field.
The event had also faced criticism over alleged ticket irregularities, including accusations of black-market sales due to overwhelming demand. In the aftermath of the disorder, the programme was widely condemned, and questions were raised over crowd control and administrative preparedness. Organiser Dutta was later arrested in connection with the incident.
Following the change in state political dynamics, Dutta has repeatedly alleged in media interactions that the then-Sports Minister had sought a large number of complimentary tickets and passes. He has further claimed that he faced pressure after refusing to comply with these demands. According to him, warnings regarding potential crowd mismanagement were not adequately acted upon by authorities.
In a parallel development, the current Sports Minister has previously assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted into the incident, particularly addressing grievances raised by spectators and concerns over financial losses incurred due to the chaotic execution of the event.
Dutta has maintained that he possesses evidence supporting his allegations and has vowed to continue pursuing legal action against those he holds responsible.
With the filing of the case, the Messi event controversy has once again returned to the centre of political and public discourse in West Bengal, reigniting debate over accountability in the organisation of large-scale sporting events. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the latest legal development.
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