Post by : Badri Ariffin

New insights have emerged regarding the disorganized event featuring Lionel Messi in Kolkata on December 13. The primary organizer, Satadru Dutta, shared critical financial and logistical details of the football star’s journey to India with the Special Investigation Team (SIT).

According to reports from PTI, Dutta informed the SIT that Argentine football sensation Lionel Messi was compensated ₹89 crore for his involvement in the G.O.A.T. India Tour 2025. Along with an extra ₹11 crore paid in taxes, the overall cost reached ₹100 crore.

Funding Breakdown

The investigation revealed the following funding sources:

• 30% of the total budget was covered by sponsors.

• Another 30% generated from ticket sales.

• Remaining costs were financed through various other means.

Numerous fans had purchased expensive tickets to witness the World Cup champion at the Salt Lake Stadium.

Event Erupts Into Chaos

Despite meticulous preparations, the event quickly descended into disorder. A massive crowd surged onto the field, encircling Messi, thereby obstructing the view for attendees in the stands. Frustration grew among fans, leading some to damage parts of the stadium.

Security Breakdowns and Access Issues

Dutta mentioned that at first, only 150 ground passes were issued; shockingly, this number was allegedly tripled after a “very influential person” arrived and changed the original access plan. A SIT official quoted Dutta stating, “Once that influential person reached the stadium, the entire flow-chart of the programme got disturbed.”

The police are investigating whether this unexpected increase in ground access directly caused the crowd control failure.

Messi’s Safety Concerns Highlighted

During the inquiry, Dutta disclosed that Messi’s security team had firmly warned that the footballer dislikes being touched or embraced. Despite multiple reminders urging fans to keep distance, the crowd ignored the advice. Dutta relayed, “The way Messi was surrounded and embraced was completely unacceptable to him.”

Minister Resigns Amid Scandal

West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas, who was seen close to Messi at the event, faced accusations of permitting family and friends onto the field. Footage of him holding Messi around the waist sparked widespread outrage.

Following the uproar, Biswas stepped down, pending the investigation's findings.

SIT Investigation Ongoing

The SIT, comprising senior IPS officers, is currently examining:

• Security breaches

• Unauthorized entry onto the field

• The role of organizers and officials

• Circumstances leading to vandalism

Investigators are also seeking clarity on how such a large crowd was able to invade restricted zones, raising serious questions about event management protocols.

#Global News #Sports News