The controversy surrounding Lionel Messi’s much-publicised visit to Kolkata continues to intensify, with fresh legal developments bringing former state Sports Minister Arup Biswas back into the spotlight. The Bidhannagar South Police Station has issued a second notice summoning Biswas to appear on Monday, June 8, just days after rejecting his request for a 14-day relief. The former minister had sought additional time, citing legal grounds, but authorities declined the plea and moved swiftly with a renewed directive.
The case stems from the chaotic scenes during Messi’s visit to Kolkata’s Yuva Bharati Krirangan in December last year. Allegations had surfaced that Biswas and his associates monopolised access to the football icon, effectively preventing many ticket-holding fans from seeing him. The incident triggered widespread public outrage, ultimately leading to Biswas stepping down from his ministerial post.
Following the event, police arrested the main organiser, Shatadru Dutta, who was later released on bail. In a significant turn of events after his release, Dutta filed a formal complaint against several individuals, including Biswas, accusing them of wrongdoing in connection with the event.
Acting on this complaint, the Bidhannagar South Police registered an FIR against the former minister under multiple serious legal provisions. Reports indicate that at least five sections have been invoked in the case.
With the FIR raising the possibility of arrest, Biswas has approached the Calcutta High Court seeking anticipatory bail. The hearing for his plea is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9.
Sources suggest that Biswas had requested the extension primarily to secure legal protection ahead of the court hearing. However, the timing of the police summons — just one day before the scheduled hearing — has added a layer of urgency and uncertainty to the situation. It remains unclear whether the former minister will comply with the latest notice and appear before the police on Monday.
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