The political fallout from the controversial Lionel Messi event in Kolkata has claimed its first major casualty. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accepted the resignation of Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Aroop Biswas, a senior Trinamool Congress leader.
Chief Minister Assumes Direct Control
In a significant administrative move, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has decided to keep the Sports and Youth Welfare Department under her own charge for the time being. This announcement was made by Trinamool Congress spokesperson Kunal Ghosh on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The decision underscores the seriousness with which the state government is treating the aftermath of the event featuring the Argentine football legend, which was marred by logistical failures and public disappointment.
The Resignation and Its Context
The resignation of Aroop Biswas comes in direct response to the widespread criticism and public anger following the poorly managed Lionel Messi event. While the exact details of the event's mismanagement are well-known locally, the political repercussion has been swift. By stepping down, Biswas has taken moral responsibility for the fiasco that embarrassed the state government on a global stage.
Kunal Ghosh confirmed that the chief minister accepted the resignation, signaling that accountability was a priority. The move is seen as an attempt by the ruling Trinamool Congress to control the narrative and demonstrate that it holds its ministers responsible for administrative failures.
Immediate Aftermath and Future Implications
With the chief minister now holding the portfolio directly, a period of close scrutiny and likely restructuring within the sports department is expected. The immediate focus will be on damage control and restoring public trust. This episode has highlighted several key issues:
- Accountability in Public Events: The resignation sets a precedent for ministerial accountability over large-scale events involving public funds and expectations.
- Administrative Overhaul: CM Banerjee's direct involvement suggests an impending review of protocols for hosting international events.
- Political Ramifications: The incident has provided ammunition to the opposition, making it a sensitive political matter for the TMC government.
The Lionel Messi event in Kolkata, intended to be a grand celebration of sports, has instead triggered a significant political and administrative shift in West Bengal. All eyes are now on how Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will steer the sports department in the wake of this controversy.
