Police detain organiser after chaos at Lionel Messi event in Kolkata

Police detain organiser after chaos at Lionel Messi event in Kolkata

 Police in India detained the organiser of a high-profile event featuring football icon Lionel Messi after angry fans vandalised seating and threw objects inside Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, authorities said on Friday, following complaints of poor arrangements and mismanagement.

The incident took place during Messi’s much-anticipated appearance at the stadium, which drew a massive crowd of ticket-holding fans. According to police and eyewitnesses, tensions flared when Messi’s on-field appearance was significantly shorter than advertised, leaving many spectators disappointed and unable to get a clear view of the Argentine star.

As frustration grew, sections of the crowd ripped out plastic seats and hurled debris onto the pitch, forcing security personnel to intervene. Police said the situation was brought under control after additional forces were deployed. No serious injuries were reported, though damage was caused to stadium property.

West Bengal police detained the event’s main organiser, Satadru Dutta, for questioning over alleged lapses in crowd management and event planning. Officials said an investigation has been launched to determine accountability and whether safety norms were violated.

Authorities also said the organiser has been asked to provide assurances regarding refunds to ticket-holders who were unable to watch the event as promised. “We are examining all aspects of the organisation of the programme. Necessary action will be taken,” a senior police official said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologised to fans and to Messi for the disorder and ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident. She said the state government would ensure stricter oversight of large public events in the future to prevent similar incidents.

Messi, who was under heavy security throughout the event, was escorted out of the stadium soon after the unrest began. His visit to Kolkata was part of a wider tour of India that includes promotional and charitable engagements in other cities.

The episode has renewed scrutiny of crowd control and event management at large-scale celebrity appearances in India, particularly those involving international sports stars with enormous fan followings.