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Messi Event in Kolkata Turns Chaotic; Fans Riot Over Limited Access

Kolkata, India – What was intended to be a celebratory event honoring Argentinian football legend Lionel Messi at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) in Kolkata descended into chaos on Saturday as frustrated fans rioted over limited access to the star.

Thousands of fans who purchased tickets, some costing up to ₹25,000, expressed outrage that their view of Messi was obstructed by VIPs and security personnel surrounding him on the field. Disgruntled attendees began throwing water bottles, escalating the situation.

Organizers swiftly escorted Messi from the stadium to the airport, reportedly en route to Hyderabad for the next leg of his India tour. This prompted further anger amongst the crowd, with attendees tearing down chairs, breaching fences, vandalizing structures erected for the event, setting fire to tents, and even damaging the stadium’s goalposts.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee cancelled her attendance due to the unrest. Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan, also slated to attend, remained in Mumbai and reportedly met with Messi at his hotel instead. Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly briefly arrived but left quickly due to the deteriorating situation.

Police resorted to using batons (lathi charge) to control the unruly crowd, resulting in injuries.

Authorities have arrested Shatadru Dutta, the primary organizer of Messi’s India tour, at the Kolkata airport. Bengal’s Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Kumar has stated that strict legal action will be taken against all those responsible. Officials have also assured that refunds will be issued to ticket holders.

Reports indicate Messi was only present at the stadium for approximately 20 minutes, arriving around 11:15 am. Attendees claimed that ministers, VIPs, and security personnel constantly surrounded him, preventing fans from getting autographs or photos.

Chief Minister Banerjee has apologized for the “unfortunate incident” and has launched an investigation led by retired Justice Asim Kumar Roy, along with the Chief Secretary and Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department.

Prior to the event, Messi virtually inaugurated his 70-foot statue in the Laketown area of Kolkata, which is touted as the world’s tallest Messi statue.

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