West Bengal Government Takes Swift Action Following Messi Event Chaos: Abhishek Banerjee Confirms

When questioned about the Messi incident, Banerjee confirmed the West Bengal government has taken appropriate action.

New Delhi:

Abhishek Banerjee, Trinamool Congress national general secretary, stated on Tuesday that the West Bengal government has implemented measures following the chaotic events during Argentine soccer legend Lionel Messi's appearance. He emphasized that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had issued an apology within an hour of the incident occurring.

During his media interaction at the Parliament complex, Banerjee also expressed dissatisfaction with how the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) was being implemented in West Bengal, though he clarified that this was not the final list.

Addressing questions about the Messi incident specifically, Banerjee confirmed definitive government action. "Regarding the incident in Bengal, the Chief Minister apologized within an hour... We have humbled ourselves before the people," he stated.

Banerjee drew comparisons to other incidents: "Multiple fatalities occurred during the Kumbh, and several people died in the New Delhi railway station stampede... Have you questioned Yogi Adityanath about those? When people died in the New Delhi railway station stampede, did you question any BJP leader or minister?"

"Forget about inquiry commissions, arrests, and everything else. They didn't even offer an apology to the country," he remarked.

He further confirmed that accountability measures were being enforced against all involved parties. "Actions are being taken against everyone implicated, from police officers to the stadium's top management and the minister," he added.

The incident occurred on December 13 when frustrated spectators, angered by alleged mismanagement, vandalized the stadium after Messi left the field earlier than expected. Officials estimated the property damage at approximately Rs two crore.

On Tuesday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accepted the sports minister's resignation, while the state government issued show-cause notices to the DGP and other senior officers, and suspended a deputy commissioner.