Mamata Banerjee apologizes to Messi, fans after stadium chaos
What's the story
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has publicly apologized to football superstar Lionel Messi and his fans after a chaotic event at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. The incident occurred during Messi's visit to Kolkata, where he unveiled a 70-foot-tall statue of himself. However, poor crowd management and security issues marred the event, leaving many attendees frustrated and irate.
Investigation launched
Banerjee announces inquiry into event mismanagement
Banerjee, who was on her way to the stadium when the chaos broke out, expressed her shock at the "mismanagement" in a statement on X. She said, "I sincerely apologize to Lionel Messi, as well as to all sports lovers and his fans, for the unfortunate incident." The chief minister has now constituted an inquiry committee headed by retired Justice Ashim Kumar Ray to investigate what went wrong at the event.
Twitter Post
Mamata Banerjee's public apology
I am deeply disturbed and shocked by the mismanagement witnessed today at Salt Lake Stadium. I was on my way to the stadium to attend the event along with thousands of sports lovers and fans who had gathered to catch a glimpse of their favourite footballer, Lionel Messi.
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) December 13, 2025
I…
Fan frustration
Fans express disappointment over Messi's brief appearance
The event was marred by fan frustration as many couldn't see or interact with Messi. Despite paying hefty ticket prices between ₹3,500 and ₹14,000, fans were left disappointed as Messi's appearance lasted only a few minutes. The situation worsened when some fans vandalized stadium property and threw bottles and chairs in anger.
Resignation demand
Political backlash and calls for resignation
The incident also drew political criticism, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) slamming Banerjee's government for "sheer mismanagement." BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala slammed the event's planning and security measures. He took to X to write, "CM Mamata Banerjee can't even organise or manage an event!" Amit Malviya, chief of the BJP's IT cell, called it a "huge disgrace" and demanded the resignation of state sports minister Aroop Biswas for his role in organizing Messi's visit.
Twitter Post
BJP attacks CM Mamata Banerjee
Total embarrassment on an international stage. A global legend like Messi will see a massive public turnout and yet zero planning & very little security ! CM Mamata Banerjee can’t even organise or manage an event!
— Shehzad Jai Hind (Modi Ka Parivar) (@Shehzad_Ind) December 13, 2025
TMC leaders surrounded him and fans were denied ! Messi had to… pic.twitter.com/HRi9SQhjoR