The Kolkata Police have arrested the chief organiser of a high-profile event linked to Argentine football legend Lionel Messi’s visit to the city after violence erupted at the Salt Lake Stadium (Yubha Bharati Krirangan) on Saturday. The unrest broke out when thousands of fans failed to get a clear glimpse of the football icon, who stayed at the venue only briefly.
West Bengal Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar said the crowd’s anger stemmed from unmet expectations. According to him, Messi was never scheduled to play or spend extended time at the stadium. “The plan was for him to arrive, wave to the crowd, meet a few people and leave. However, many fans were anxious and upset, believing he would be visible for longer,” Kumar told news agency PTI.
Violence Breaks Out as Fans Lose Patience
As disappointment spread through the packed stadium, several spectators allegedly hurled bottles and chairs, forcing police to intervene. Scores of fans were left frustrated after failing to see Messi properly, despite paying premium ticket prices ranging from ₹4,000 to ₹25,000.
Senior police officials confirmed that an FIR has been registered, and the chief organiser was taken into custody. ADGP (Law and Order) Jawed Shamim later confirmed the arrest, stating that investigations are underway. While local media identified the arrested individual as Satadru Dutta, official confirmation of the name is awaited.
Refunds Promised, Situation Brought Under Control
The state police chief said the organisers have given a written assurance that ticket refunds will be issued to aggrieved fans. “The situation is now under control,” Kumar added, while also noting that the state government has formed a committee to examine the incident, including security arrangements and event planning.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Expresses Shock
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who was scheduled to attend the programme but could not due to the chaos, expressed deep shock over the incident. In a post on X, she apologised to both Messi and his fans.
“I sincerely apologise to Lionel Messi, as well as to all sports lovers and his fans, for the unfortunate incident,” Banerjee wrote, adding that she was disturbed by the mismanagement that unfolded at the stadium.
Fans Blame Poor Planning and ‘VIP-Centric’ Event
Fans took to social media to vent their anger, largely directing criticism at the organisers rather than the football star. Many accused the organisers of turning the event into a “VIP-only showcase”, alleging that politicians and film personalities surrounded Messi while paying spectators were left disappointed.
One fan wrote that despite paying ₹12,000, they “couldn’t even see Messi’s face,” while others complained that the crowd was promised moments that never materialised — “no kick, no penalty, no interaction.”
Messi’s India Tour Begins Amid Controversy
The Salt Lake event marked the first stop of Messi’s three-day, four-city ‘GOAT India Tour 2025’, which was meant to celebrate football and fan engagement. However, the incident has raised serious questions about event management, crowd control and transparency in high-profile sports appearances in India.
Authorities said further action will be taken based on the findings of the government-appointed committee.
