Messi Kolkata event chaos 'pre-planned'...? TMC alleges 'saffron' hand
What's the story
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has raised questions over the recent chaos and vandalism during Lionel Messi's Kolkata visit. The TMC, West Bengal's ruling party, has asked if the events at Salt Lake Stadium were "pre-planned." They also questioned the presence of saffron flags at the event. TMC leader Kunal Ghosh said, "Whatever happened is very unfortunate... It was not a state government program."
Event chaos
Messi's Kolkata visit marred by fan unrest
Messi's Kolkata visit was part of his G.O.A.T India tour, but it turned chaotic when fans vandalized stadium property. The unrest was triggered after Messi left the field in just 10 minutes due to mismanagement. Fans who had paid high ticket prices were disappointed and protested inside the stadium, accusing organizers of mismanagement and broken promises.
Political implications
TMC leader questions motives behind saffron flags
Ghosh also questioned the motives behind raising saffron flags and chanting Jai Shri Ram slogans during the event. He asked if those responsible for the vandalism were using football fans' emotions for a pre-planned conspiracy. TMC spokesperson Riju Dutta echoed these sentiments, asking what connection there was between Messi and Ram.
Political fallout
BJP criticizes TMC for event mismanagement
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has slammed the TMC for its failure to manage the event. BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of "shedding crocodile tears" and demanded resignations from those responsible. West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari called for an independent judicial inquiry into the incident, alleging abuse of power and lawlessness at Yuva Bharti Stadium.
Event contrast
Messi's Hyderabad leg of tour goes smoothly
In stark contrast to the Kolkata chaos, Messi's Hyderabad leg of the tour was smooth and engaging, NDTV reported. Organizers ensured better crowd control and a calmer atmosphere at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Telangana Congress leader Revanth Reddy and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi were present during this event, which included a friendly match between local teams.