Messi’s Kolkata Event Organiser Arrested as Violent Chaos Forces Mamata Banerjee to Apologise; Police Assure Ticket Refunds
Kolkata, West Bengal:
The organiser of the much-hyped Lionel Messi event in Kolkata was arrested on Sunday after violent chaos erupted at Salt Lake Stadium, prompting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to issue a public apology and order an official probe into the incident. Police have assured fans that the ticket refund process will be completed.
What was expected to be a landmark celebration for football fans quickly turned into disorder as allegations of gross mismanagement, overcrowding, and misleading ticketing practices surfaced.
Violent Scenes Erupt at Salt Lake Stadium
Thousands of supporters gathered at Salt Lake Stadium hoping to witness Lionel Messi’s presence, but confusion over entry procedures and poor crowd management led to unrest. Eyewitnesses reported clashes near entry gates, damage to public property, and panic among attendees.
Several fans claimed they were denied entry despite holding valid tickets, triggering protests and anger both inside and outside the venue.
Event Organiser Arrested, Police Investigation Continues
Kolkata Police confirmed the arrest of the main event organiser in connection with the incident. Officials said the arrest followed complaints from ticket holders and preliminary findings pointing to serious lapses in planning and execution.
Police are investigating ticket sales, permissions granted, coordination with authorities, and potential violations of safety norms. Further legal action is likely based on the outcome of the probe.
Mamata Banerjee Apologises, Orders Inquiry
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee responded to the controversy by expressing regret over the chaos and embarrassment caused during the high-profile event. She ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the mismanagement at Salt Lake Stadium.
In a public statement, the Chief Minister assured that accountability would be fixed and that such incidents would not be repeated in future international events hosted in the state.
Police Promise Ticket Refunds to Fans
Amid mounting public outrage, police officials stated that organisers have been directed to ensure full ticket refunds. Many fans had travelled from different districts and neighbouring states, adding to the scale of disappointment.
Authorities said they are monitoring the refund process to ensure that affected ticket holders are compensated without delay.
Fallout and Questions Over Event Oversight
The incident has sparked a wider debate over the regulation of large-scale public events involving international celebrities. Critics have questioned oversight mechanisms, ticket pricing transparency, and the role of private organisers.
With investigations underway and political scrutiny intensifying, the Messi Kolkata event controversy continues to dominate headlines.
0 Comments