Kolkata: Satadru Dutta, the organiser of the Messi India tour, on Monday filed a complaint at Bidhannagar South Police Station against former sports minister Aroop Biswas, former Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar, New Alipore councillor Juin Biswas, and IAS officer Santanu Basu, accusing them of sabotaging the event held at Salt Lake Stadium in December 2025. A senior police officer confirmed that the complaint has been accepted, though specific legal sections are yet to be drawn up.
Allegations of Misuse of Power
Dutta alleged that Biswas misused his official position and exerted influence to allow unauthorised individuals onto the pitch, which led to harassment of football superstar Lionel Messi. This, according to Dutta, caused Messi to leave the venue prematurely, disappointing thousands of spectators who had purchased tickets. "Biswas pressured me to provide 22,000 tickets and access cards to the pitch," Dutta told the Times of India.
Security Breach at Z-Plus Event
Accusing the police of negligence and compromising security at a Z-Plus category event, Dutta stated that there were 200 to 300 people on the pitch. When Messi, after being jostled by the crowd, stormed out and drove to the airport an hour ahead of his scheduled departure, angry fans who had failed to catch even a glimpse of the star vandalised the venue. Director General Rajeev Kumar rushed to the airport in an attempt to persuade Messi to return, but the footballer refused. Subsequently, Dutta was removed from the aircraft and arrested. He spent 38 days in custody before being granted bail.
Successful Events in Other Cities
Following the Kolkata fiasco, Messi attended events organised by Dutta's team in Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi without any such chaos. These events proceeded smoothly, highlighting the contrast with the Kolkata incident.
Government Orders Fresh Probe
After a change in government, the new sports and youth welfare department minister, Nishith Pramanik, ordered a fresh investigation into the "Messi fiasco." He warned of strict action if corruption or financial irregularities are uncovered. Pramanik also stated that the role of the ticket agency involved in the event would come under scrutiny.
