Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has filed a defamation suit seeking ₹50 crore (INR 500 million) in damages against Uttam Saha, the president of an Argentina fan club in Kolkata. The complaint, lodged at Lalbazar, alleges that Saha's statements have damaged Ganguly's reputation without any factual basis.

The lawsuit stems from allegations made by Saha linking Ganguly to the recent visit of Argentinian football star Lionel Messi to Kolkata. Saha claimed that Ganguly played a role in Messi's visit and acted as an intermediary between the organizers and the Argentine player. Ganguly's legal team responded by issuing a notice to Saha, demanding a retraction of the statements and compensation for damages.

The event in question, part of Messi's "GOAT India Tour 2025," was held at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata and was marred by chaos, with many fans unable to catch a glimpse of the football icon. According to reports, angry fans engaged in vandalism at the stadium. Ganguly was present at the stadium during Messi's visit but was situated in a separate section. He reportedly left the stadium due to the disturbances and was visibly disappointed.

The Economic Times reports that Saha accused Ganguly of being a "stooge" and financially ruining Bengal cricket. Hindustan Times also reported the same.

Messi's India tour included visits to Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, with plans to meet with chief ministers and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During a speech in New Delhi, Messi expressed gratitude for the affection he received during his time in India. He acknowledged the intense but beautiful experience and conveyed his hope to return to India in the future.

This legal action comes amidst reports of other controversies surrounding Messi's visit, including complaints about high ticket prices that prevented many football enthusiasts from attending the event. The West Bengal Governor, CV Ananda Bose, has sought a detailed report from the state government regarding the arrangements for Messi's Kolkata program, questioning the state's role and the reasons why ordinary citizens were allegedly barred from witnessing the event.