What was billed as a historic football celebration spiralled into controversy after Lionel Messi Kolkata chaos broke out at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan on Saturday, leaving thousands of fans angry and disappointed.
Football icon Lionel Messi arrived at Salt Lake Stadium around 11:15 am as part of the much-publicised G.O.A.T. Tour. However, fans who paid between Rs 5,000 and Rs 25,000 for tickets claimed they could not get a clear view of the Argentine superstar. Within minutes of his appearance, frustration grew inside the packed stadium, setting the stage for Lionel Messi Kolkata chaos.
What Went Wrong Inside The Stadium
As Messi emerged from the tunnel, heavy security deployment and the presence of VIP guests near the stage blocked visibility for most spectators. Angry fans began throwing chairs and bottles from the stands, prompting security personnel to act swiftly.
Messi, who was scheduled to take a full lap of the stadium, stayed for only about 20 minutes before being escorted away for safety reasons amid the worsening Lionel Messi Kolkata chaos.
Event Cut Short Amid Escalating Tension
Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan, former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee were present for the event. However, the programme was abruptly terminated before any formal proceedings could take place.
Several fans reportedly breached security barricades and vandalised canopies installed at the venue. Speaking to NDTV, attendees described the situation as āpoorly managedā and blamed organisers for failing to control the crowd during the Lionel Messi Kolkata chaos.
Organiser Arrested, Probe Ordered
Following the incident, promoter Shatadru Datta, the main organiser of the G.O.A.T. Tour in Kolkata, was arrested after an FIR was registered. Jawed Shamim, Additional Director General (Law and Order), confirmed the arrest and said anti-riot forces were deployed to bring the situation under control.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee later issued a public apology on X, calling the mismanagement ādisturbingā and ordering an enquiry into the Lionel Messi Kolkata chaos.
FAQs
Q: What caused the Lionel Messi Kolkata chaos?
A: Poor crowd management and blocked visibility triggered anger among fans who could not see Messi.
Q: How long did Messi stay during the Lionel Messi Kolkata chaos?
A: He stayed at the stadium for approximately 20 minutes before being escorted out.
Q: Who was arrested after the incident?
A: Event organiser Shatadru Datta was arrested after an FIR was lodged.
Q: Did Mamata Banerjee respond to the chaos?
A: Yes, she apologised publicly and ordered an enquiry into the Lionel Messi Kolkata chaos.
