Messi started the lap of honor in the stadium, but the siege was so heavy that he could not even complete the full circle.
Digital Desk, New Delhi. The first stop of famous football player Lionel Messi's India tour turned into chaos in Kolkata when thousands of fans could not even see him properly. People had bought tickets worth up to Rs 14,000 to see Messi arrive at the Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday afternoon, but the chaos in the program spoiled everything.
Fans expected to see their favorite star up close, but as soon as Messi came on the field, many politicians, officials and dignitaries surrounded him. The spectators sitting in the distant gallery could not see anything. Angry fans started booing the officials and throwing chairs and bottles. Security personnel had to quickly take Messi out.
Chaos spread in the stadium
The program had started well. Messi started the lap of honor in the stadium, but the siege was so heavy that he could not even complete the full circle. He was taken out in just 20-22 minutes.
Organizer Satadru Dutta repeatedly appealed on the mic that people should leave Messi alone and vacate the field. His voice became emotional, but the appeal had no effect. Dignitaries remained constantly around Messi.
The anger of the fans increased. Many tried to get on the field, broke chairs and threw things. The police had to use mild force. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed regret over the incident and apologized to Messi. He announced to form an inquiry committee.
Organizer Satadru Dutta will not get bail
After the incident, Kolkata Police detained the main organizer Satadru Dutta. He was at the airport to go to Hyderabad when he was caught. Dutta is the main promoter of 'GOAT India Tour 2025' and the tour is said to be his initiative. The police accused him of disorder and fraud. Fans have also been given a written assurance of refunding the ticket money.
On Sunday, Dutta was produced in Bidhannagar court. His lawyer applied for bail, but the police asked for 14 days' custody. The court rejected the bail plea and sent Dutta to 14-day police custody. The investigation is ongoing and a case has been registered under several sections.
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