West Bengal CM apologizes as event devolves into vandalism, security breaches, and fan frustration.
Messi’s Visit Turns Chaotic
Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi faced an unexpected disruption during his first stop in India at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium. Part of his GOAT India Tour, the event quickly descended into chaos due to poor crowd management, forcing Messi to leave early amid rising unrest.
Scheduled to include a coaching clinic, a “Master Class with Messi,” and a felicitation ceremony for Bengal’s Santosh Trophy-winning team, the planned activities were abandoned as security struggled to manage the swelling crowd.
Massive Crowd and Mismanagement
Messi arrived around 11:30am, greeted by deafening cheers from thousands of fans. Accompanied by West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas, organizer Satadru Dutta, and Mohun Bagan officials, Messi was also joined by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul.
Despite the presence of high-profile figures, fans were frustrated by restricted access, crowded stands, and unfulfilled expectations. Many had purchased tickets ranging from ₹4,500 to ₹20,000, hoping to see Messi in action.
Fan Anger Turns Violent
The crowd’s frustration erupted into vandalism:
- Water bottles, chairs, and posters were thrown
- Fibreglass seats damaged and temporary tents vandalized
- Security fences breached, fans invaded the pitch
The Rapid Action Force (RAF) was deployed to restore order as parts of the stadium were overrun. Fans reported that some policemen appeared distracted, with some allegedly trying to take selfies with Messi rather than control the situation.
Eyewitness Accounts Highlight Mismanagement
- Sanmoy, an attendee, compared the crowd density to a Durga Puja pandal, calling the situation “ridiculous.”
- Archisman Rakshit noted organizers prioritized VIP guests over paying fans, with Messi’s teammates visibly affected by the chaos.
Following Messi’s early exit, fans left disappointed and angry, venting frustration through vandalism.
Government Response
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee issued an apology to Messi, his fans, and sports enthusiasts. She announced a special inquiry committee, led by retired Justice Ashim Kumar Ray, to investigate the incident and recommend preventive measures.
West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose also requested a detailed report on the event’s planning and execution, questioning the state government’s role and the financial arrangements that left fans disappointed.
Messi’s Tour Continues
Despite the chaotic Kolkata leg, Messi is scheduled to continue his India tour:
- Hyderabad – Event with Telangana CM Revanth Reddy
- Mumbai – Promotional and charity appearances
- New Delhi – Event at Arun Jaitley Stadium and meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Organizers hope subsequent stops will avoid the crowd management issues seen in Kolkata.