Messi's Kolkata Visit Ends in Chaos

Lionel Messi's recent visit to Kolkata was marked by unexpected chaos, following his brief 20-minute appearance at the Salt Lake Stadium. Fans, eager to catch a glimpse of the football superstar, became unruly, storming the pitch and throwing objects like chairs and bottles. This incident was a stark contrast to the excitement surrounding Messi's presence in India. The scene grew even more tumultuous as fans vandalized furniture and attempted to ignite a fire at the venue.

In the wake of the disturbances, West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee publicly apologized to Messi on social media platform X. She announced the establishment of an inquiry commission to investigate the unruly behavior of fans. The chief organizer of the event, Satadru Dutta, was arrested by Kolkata police at the airport, indicating the seriousness of the situation.

Amidst the turmoil, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) issued a statement to clarify its position regarding the event. They emphasized that the AIFF had no involvement in the planning or execution of the private event organized by a PR agency. The AIFF expressed deep concern over the events that unfolded at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, where thousands had gathered in anticipation of witnessing Messi and other football stars.

The federation further urged fans to cooperate with the authorities and maintain decorum during such events. The safety and security of all attendees, including players, officials, and fans, must be a top priority. This incident highlights the need for proper event management and communication, especially when dealing with high-profile personalities like Messi.

As the dust settles from this chaotic episode, the focus shifts to ensuring that future events are better organized to prevent such incidents from occurring again. Fans, while passionate, must also recognize the importance of maintaining order to enjoy the experiences that come with seeing their heroes in person.