What Led to the Controversial Messi Incident? Former Sports Minister Aroop Biswas Summoned!

The police have summoned Aroop Biswas, the former West Bengal sports minister, to investigate his involvement in the chaotic Messi event at Salt Lake Stadium. Following a complaint from the event's organizer, allegations of ticket distribution misconduct and intimidation have surfaced. The incident, which occurred last December, led to significant crowd disorder and dissatisfaction among ticket holders. As political tensions rise, the current sports minister has hinted at a potential investigation by the BJP government. This article delves into the details of the controversy and its implications for Biswas and the TMC.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 2, 2026, 21:14 IST

Police Summons for Aroop Biswas

In Kolkata, the police have summoned Aroop Biswas, the former sports minister of West Bengal, to provide testimony regarding the controversial 'Messi fiasco' that occurred at the Salt Lake Stadium last year.

This summons comes shortly after Satadru Dutta, the organizer of Argentine football star Lionel Messi's tour in India, lodged a police complaint against Biswas, alleging misconduct in ticket distribution and intimidation.

As a member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Biswas has been instructed to meet with the investigating officers at Bidhannagar Dakshin Police Station on June 5, according to police sources.

A police spokesperson stated, 'The officers need to question Aroop Biswas concerning the complaint related to the Messi incident.'

Dutta, who played a pivotal role in organizing Messi's tour, filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Biswas, claiming extortion, criminal intimidation, and the improper sale of complimentary tickets and passes for the event held on December 13.

Last month, West Bengal's current Sports Minister, Nisith Pramanik, hinted that the BJP government might pursue an investigation into the 'Messi fiasco.'

The event at Salt Lake Stadium on December 13 turned chaotic as numerous individuals reportedly gained entry without valid tickets, resulting in security breaches and crowd disturbances.

Many attendees who had purchased high-priced tickets expressed their dissatisfaction, stating they could neither see Messi nor enjoy the event due to overcrowding and poor management.

In the midst of the turmoil, Messi exited the venue swiftly, prompting some frustrated fans to vandalize parts of the stadium.

This incident sparked significant political controversy, with accusations directed at Aroop Biswas for alleged failures in event planning and crowd control.