The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the controversial Lionel Messi event in Kolkata has made a significant breakthrough, revealing that the football legend was visibly unhappy during the interaction. The main organiser of the event, identified as Priyant Singh, has been arrested on charges of alleged fraud.
What Happened at the Kolkata Event?
The incident dates back to September 2022, when Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi visited Kolkata as part of a promotional event. The event, which was highly anticipated by fans, took a controversial turn. According to the SIT's findings, based on statements from witnesses and security personnel, Messi expressed clear discomfort when some attendees at the gathering tried to touch him.
The SIT, formed by the Kolkata Police, has been investigating allegations of financial irregularities and mismanagement surrounding the event. Their probe has now uncovered that the interaction did not go as smoothly as portrayed publicly. Messi, known for his reserved demeanour, was reportedly not pleased with the physical contact initiated by certain individuals present.
The Arrest and Allegations Against the Organiser
The investigation led to the arrest of the key figure behind the event, Priyant Singh. He was taken into custody on Tuesday following a detailed inquiry. The SIT alleges that Singh and his associates are responsible for cheating and breach of trust.
The core of the case revolves around financial misconduct. Authorities claim that the organisers collected substantial funds from various stakeholders and sponsors for the high-profile event featuring Messi. However, they allegedly failed to fulfil their contractual obligations, leading to significant financial losses for multiple parties involved.
The SIT's chargesheet indicates that the organisers did not have proper permissions or clearances for the scale of the event they planned. This administrative lapse added to the chaos and mismanagement on the ground, contributing to the situation where protocols around the celebrity guest were compromised.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigation
The arrest has sent ripples through the event management industry in India, highlighting the risks associated with high-stakes celebrity engagements. The Kolkata Police's SIT is continuing its investigation to determine if more individuals were part of the alleged conspiracy to defraud investors and partners.
This case underscores the importance of due diligence and transparent agreements when organising events featuring international icons. The incident in Kolkata serves as a cautionary tale for other cities in India hoping to host global sporting heroes, emphasising the need for professional execution and respect for the guest's comfort and security.
The legal proceedings against Priyant Singh are ongoing, and the SIT is expected to file a detailed chargesheet in court soon. The probe continues to examine all financial transactions and communications related to the ill-fated event.
