Behind the Chaos: Messi's Kolkata Tour Organizer Speaks Out
Revelations from the Kolkata Event
In the aftermath of the tumultuous Kolkata leg of Lionel Messi's tour in India, sports organizer Satadru Dutta has come forward with startling insights regarding the events that transpired. In a candid interview, Dutta revealed that members of Messi's team held West Bengal's Sports Minister, Aroop Biswas, accountable for the security failures that led to chaos during the Salt Lake event. Dutta recounted how, at the airport, Messi's entourage questioned his detention, asserting that he was merely trying to safeguard Messi amidst the escalating crowd situation.
Reflecting on the incident, Dutta expressed regret over hosting the event in Kolkata, despite his deep emotional ties to the city and its football fans. He admitted that he had opportunities to organize Messi's visit elsewhere with less hassle and greater financial benefits, but chose Kolkata out of passion. However, he emphasized that the chaos should not be blamed on the fans, as the real issues stemmed from unauthorized access and interference from individuals who were not supposed to be near Messi.
Witnesses reported that confusion erupted when Messi waved to a section of the crowd and then departed, leading many to feel deceived, resulting in a surge of anger that saw fans dismantling seats and throwing objects. Dutta noted that the situation worsened due to VIPs, including the minister, crowding around Messi, which obstructed the view for many attendees.
As the crowd grew, Messi reportedly became uncomfortable, particularly when individuals began touching him while taking selfies. Dutta shared that the emotional toll of the incident still lingers, stating, 'What haunted me most was that after doing the impossible by bringing Messi here, I ended up going to jail. Those ten minutes changed my life completely.'
A Sacrifice for the Tour's Continuation
‘I Sacrificed Myself To Save The Rest Of The Tour’
Dutta further revealed that members of Messi's entourage, including notable players Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suarez, expressed their concerns after his detention. They believed that the minister was primarily responsible for the security breakdown. Dutta mentioned that Messi's family and management showed support following the incident, sending a letter expressing their shock at how he was treated.
Dutta maintained that all necessary protocols and permissions were in place prior to Messi's arrival, and that unauthorized individuals breached the security perimeter. He emphasized that the responsibility for maintaining order lay with the police and administration, not with him as the organizer.
He admitted to fearing that Messi might cancel the remaining events in India due to the chaos in Kolkata. Ultimately, Dutta agreed to conclude the Kolkata event prematurely to ensure the safety of the upcoming shows in Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi. He stated, 'I basically sacrificed myself to ensure the rest of the tour could continue.'
Despite facing criticism regarding the event's format and pricing, Dutta clarified that he never promised a full football match with Messi. He highlighted the significant financial and operational challenges involved in hosting a global sports icon like Messi, noting that it requires substantial investments and logistical planning. Legal proceedings related to the incident are ongoing, and Dutta is determined to continue his fight in court while preparing for future international sporting events.