New revelations have come to light regarding the chaotic event featuring Lionel Messi in Kolkata on December 13, where organizer Satadru Dutta disclosed crucial financial details about the football star’s visit to India.
Sources from PTI indicate that Dutta informed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) that the Argentine football legend was compensated ₹89 crore for his participation in the G.O.A.T. India Tour 2025. Additionally, ₹11 crore was paid in taxes, totaling ₹100 crore.
Funding Overview
Investigators were told that:
30% of expenses came from sponsorships.
Another 30% was generated from ticket sales.
Other financial sources covered the remaining costs.
Thousands of fans invested in premium tickets anticipating an appearance from the World Cup-winning athlete.
Event Chaos Unfolds
Despite careful planning, the event devolved into disorder. A surge of fans rushed towards Messi, obstructing visibility for others in the stands, inciting anger and leading to incidents of vandalism at the stadium.
Security Breaches Exposed
Dutta claimed only 150 ground passes were initially granted, but this number reportedly tripled after a “high-profile individual” intervened and overturned entry plans. An SIT official quoted Dutta remarking on the disruption of event flow caused by this individual.
Police are probing whether this sudden spike in access contributed to the failure of crowd management.
Concerns for Messi’s Safety
During interrogations, Dutta stated that Messi's security team emphasized the football star's dislike for being touched or embraced. Despite numerous reminders for restraint, the crowd's behavior was unacceptable, with Dutta stating, “The manner in which Messi was encircled and touched was entirely inappropriate for him.”
Minister Resigns Amid Controversy
West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas, who was witnessed close to Messi, faces allegations of allowing friends and family onto the field. Images of him with his arm around Messi have drawn further scrutiny.
In light of the controversy, Biswas has resigned while the investigation is ongoing.
SIT Investigation Underway
The SIT, comprised of senior IPS officials, is investigating:
Security oversights
Unauthorized access to the field
Roles of organizers and officials involved
Circumstances surrounding the vandalism
Authorities are also examining how a significant number of attendees accessed restricted areas, raising serious concerns about event management protocols.
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