Chaos Erupts at Lionel Messi's Kolkata Visit: Fans Riot After Failed Glimpse of Football Icon

Kolkata witnessed unprecedented chaos today as thousands of football enthusiasts gathered to see football legend Lionel Messi, only for their excitement to transform into disappointment and anger.

Football fans from across the city flocked to Salt Lake Stadium early this morning, hoping to witness the Argentine superstar in person. Unfortunately, what should have been a memorable experience turned disastrous when Messi's brief appearance, surrounded by politicians and dignitaries, left most spectators unable to catch even a glimpse of him despite paying up to Rs 14,000 per ticket.

The frustration quickly escalated into disorder, with fans expressing their displeasure through acts of vandalism. Security personnel struggled to maintain control as the situation deteriorated rapidly.

The incident sparked immediate political controversy, with the BJP criticizing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the "total embarrassment" on a global platform. In response, Banerjee issued a public apology and established an inquiry committee headed by a retired judge. Meanwhile, Governor CV Ananda Bose demanded the arrest of the event organizer and full refunds for ticket holders.

A senior Trinamool Congress leader close to the Chief Minister summed up the sentiment by stating, "Kolkata is ashamed."

At Salt Lake Stadium, Messi arrived early morning as part of his three-day tour of India. After unveiling his statue in the city, he proceeded to the stadium where thousands awaited his appearance.

The celebration quickly soured as many fans failed to spot the football icon amid the entourage surrounding him. Disappointed spectators began booing officials and throwing chairs and bottles onto the field.

Security protocols collapsed when numerous fans invaded the pitch, with some damaging stadium facilities. As the chaos intensified, organizers were forced to cut short Messi's planned stadium lap, hurriedly escorting him away.

Law enforcement struggled to restore order, eventually requiring riot control forces at the venue.

Furious spectators demanded refunds, citing poor organization, while Messi departed for Hyderabad, his next destination in India.

The fiasco deeply embarrassed the state government, which faces an upcoming assembly election. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala seized the opportunity to criticize, stating, "Mamata Banerjee can't organize or manage an event."

Chief Minister Banerjee expressed shock at the mismanagement and publicly apologized to Messi and his fans. She ordered an investigation led by judge Ashim Kumar Ray along with top state officials to determine responsibility.

The Trinamool Congress party also criticized the event organizers, with General Secretary Kunal Ghosh questioning why arrangements weren't made to ensure Messi's visibility to attendees. "Did this enhance Kolkata's reputation? Why didn't the incompetent organizers leave even a mark of minimal planning? Just money? Just business? Kolkata was shamed. The spectators' anger is justified," he remarked, distancing the party from the event.

Governor Bose expressed his shock at the situation, blaming both the organizers and police. He described it as "a dark day for the sports-loving people of Kolkata" and issued 12 directives, including judicial inquiry, arrest of the organizer, and ticket refunds.

Shortly thereafter, authorities filed an FIR against Shatadru Dutta, the main event organizer, and placed him under arrest.