Kolkata Reels After Messi Visit Turns Sour: Mamata Banerjee Apologizes
Kolkata, India – West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has issued a public apology to football superstar Lionel Messi and his fans following a chaotic scene at the Salt Lake Stadium during Messi's visit on Saturday. The Argentine legend's appearance, part of his GOAT India Tour 2025, was marred by mismanagement and crowd unrest, leaving many fans disappointed and frustrated.
The frenzy surrounding Messi's arrival was palpable, with thousands of fans thronging the stadium for a glimpse of the World Cup winner. However, the situation quickly spiraled out of control as many ticket-holders, including those who paid premium prices, complained they could not see Messi at all, either in person or on the stadium's big screens. Reports indicate that Messi's appearance was limited to a mere 22 minutes, during which he was heavily surrounded by dignitaries and officials, further obscuring the view for the general audience.
The disappointment soon turned into anger, with spectators vandalizing banners and seats, throwing bottles and other objects, and booing officials. The chaos forced Messi to cut short his lap of honor and be escorted away from the stadium amidst security concerns.
Chief Minister Banerjee, who was en route to the stadium when the chaos unfolded, expressed her shock and distress over the mismanagement. "I am deeply disturbed and shocked by the mismanagement witnessed today at Salt Lake Stadium," she stated on X (formerly Twitter). "I sincerely apologize to Lionel Messi, as well as to all sports lovers and his fans, for the unfortunate incident".
In response to the incident, Banerjee has established an inquiry committee, headed by a retired judge, to investigate the mismanagement and determine responsibility. The committee includes the Chief Secretary and the Additional Chief Secretary, Home and Hill Affairs Department, as members. The committee is expected to conduct a detailed inquiry, fix responsibility, and recommend measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Meanwhile, police in Kolkata have arrested the event organizer. According to West Bengal Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar, the government will investigate all aspects, including potential mismanagement by the organizer. Authorities are also considering refunding tickets to the disgruntled fans.
The incident has drawn criticism from various quarters, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the Trinamool Congress-led state government of mismanagement and demanding the resignation of the state sports minister. "Total embarrassment on an international stage," BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala said. "A global legend like Messi will see a massive public turnout and yet zero planning & very little security! CM Mamata Banerjee can't even organise or manage an event!".
Despite the unfortunate events in Kolkata, Messi is scheduled to continue his GOAT India Tour 2025 with a visit to Hyderabad. He is expected to arrive in the city later today.
