sports event security
Chaos at Lionel Messi's Kolkata Event: BJP Slams Mamata Banerjee for "Complete Mismanagement"
Dec 13, 2025 06:57 pm CST
The visit of football superstar Lionel Messi to Kolkata descended into chaos at Salt Lake Stadium as angry fans breached security and vandalized property after being unable to see their idol. BJP leaders harshly criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Trinamool Congress for alleged mismanagement, while Banerjee has apologized and announced an inquiry. The high-profile event, which cost attendees up to Rs 14,000 per ticket, was cut short amid the disorder, with political blame-trading following the international embarrassment.
Mamata Banerjee Issues Public Apology Following Chaos at Lionel Messi's Kolkata Event: Investigation Ordered
Dec 13, 2025 06:57 pm CST
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has ordered an official inquiry and issued a public apology after Lionel Messi's appearance at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata descended into chaos. Fans who paid up to Rs 14,000 for tickets vandalized the stadium when unable to see the football superstar, forcing organizers to cut short the event and hurriedly escort Messi away. The incident has sparked political backlash with opposition BJP criticizing the event's security arrangements and management just months before elections.