Messi's Kolkata event organizer arrested, police promise ticket refund
What's the story
The West Bengal police have arrested the organizer of a recent event featuring Argentine footballer Lionel Messi at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, Hindustan Times reported. The arrest comes after fans turned violent when they were unable to see Messi properly during his brief appearance. According to fans, the tickets for the event were priced between ₹4,000 and ₹25,000.
Refund assurance
Organizer's arrest and ticket refund promise
The arrested organizer has been identified as Satadru Dutta. Additional Director General (Law and Order) Jawed Shamim confirmed the arrest to ANI, adding that an FIR had been filed. The police also assured fans that the organizers have agreed in writing to refund the ticket money. "Now the situation is under control," he said after announcing the arrest and refund promise.
Apology issued
Chief Minister Banerjee apologizes for event mismanagement
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has also apologized for the incident. She expressed her shock over the mismanagement at Salt Lake Stadium and apologized to Messi and sports lovers. "I sincerely apologize to Lionel Messi, as well as to all sports lovers and his fans, for the unfortunate incident," she wrote on social media platform X.
Investigation underway
Inquiry committee to investigate event mismanagement
Banerjee also announced the formation of an inquiry committee to probe the incident. The committee will be headed by retired Calcutta High Court judge Justice Ashim Kumar Ray, with the chief secretary and the additional chief secretary of the home and hill affairs department as members. It will look into all aspects of the event and recommend measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Fan backlash
Fans express frustration over event's VIP showcase
Fans have taken to social media to express their disappointment with the event, accusing organizers of turning it into a "VIP showcase." One fan wrote: "Only leaders and actors were surrounding Messi," adding that even after paying ₹12,000, they "couldn't even see his face." Another fan lamented: "No kick, no penalty," demanding refunds, which police officials have promised to secure from organizers.