Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated visit to Kolkata was meant to celebrate the city’s rich football culture. Thousands gathered at Salt Lake Stadium to witness the global icon, but alleged mismanagement, blocked views and confusion among spectators led to unrest, vandalism and police action, turning a historic night into controversy.
A Grand Welcome That Slowly Unravelled at Salt Lake Stadium
Kolkata lived up to its reputation as India’s football capital as fans poured into Salt Lake Stadium for Lionel Messi’s “GOAT Tour” appearance. The city witnessed massive footfall, tight security and festive scenes with Argentina jerseys, banners and chants echoing across the venue.
Messi’s brief appearance sparked euphoria and emotional reactions among fans who had waited hours to see the World Cup-winning legend in person.
However, excitement soon turned into disappointment. Spectators complained of poor crowd management, unclear seating arrangements and VIP barricades obstructing their view. Many alleged that organisers failed to communicate schedules properly, leading to confusion and rising frustration.
As the situation worsened, sections of the crowd vandalised stadium property, forcing police to intervene and restore order.
Messi Kolkata Event Chaos: Arrests, Probe, Political Reactions and Police Action
- Event organiser Satadru Dutta arrested for alleged mismanagement of the Messi Kolkata event
- North 24 Parganas district court sends organiser to 14-day police custody
- Defence claims organiser was framed and not responsible for in-stadium arrangements
- West Bengal government sets up a three-member enquiry committee to investigate chaos
- Governor CV Ananda Bose visits Salt Lake Stadium and demands judicial probe
- Governor calls for refund of ticket money and action against all organisers
- Bidhannagar Police register two cases and begin questioning more individuals
- BJP demands a court-monitored probe into Messi event mismanagement
- TMC accuses opposition of politicising a sports and cultural event
Lionel Messi’s Kolkata visit showcased the city’s deep love for football, but organisational lapses overshadowed a landmark moment. The chaos raised serious questions about event planning, crowd control and accountability.
