NATIONAL: Kolkata Messi Tour Chaos: Two More Arrested
Lionel Messi’s appearance at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on December 13 turned chaotic during the GOAT Tour of India.
Fans, frustrated by limited visibility and a shortened program, vandalized seats and created disturbances.
The event, meant to celebrate the football icon, saw objects thrown and damage to stadium property.
Police Action and Arrests
Authorities responded swiftly to the incident. On Monday, police arrested Subhopratim Dey and Gaurav Basu for vandalizing chairs and causing disruption.
This brought the total arrests to five, including earlier detentions.
Notices were issued to six event management officials. A comprehensive report on the episode is expected to reach government authorities within 15 days.
Organizer in Custody
A local court granted 14-day police custody to Shatadru Dutta, the chief event organizer arrested in connection with the mismanagement claims.
Investigations continue, with promises of firm measures against those found responsible.
Tour Moves to Delhi
Despite the Kolkata setback, Messi proceeded with his India itinerary. On December 15, he arrived in Delhi for the tour’s concluding leg.
Key activities include:
- Private meetings with Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, hosted at the residence of former AIFF president and NCP MP Praful Patel.
- A public event at Arun Jaitley Stadium (formerly Feroz Shah Kotla), starting around 3:30 PM, featuring interactions and celebrations.
The GOAT Tour highlights Messi’s enduring appeal while underscoring challenges in managing large-scale fan events.