West Bengal Governor to Report on Messi Event Mismanagement: What Went Wrong?
Governor's Observations on Stadium Chaos
Kolkata: On Monday, C.V. Ananda Bose, the Governor of West Bengal, announced plans to submit a detailed report to the Central government regarding the management failures observed at the Salt Lake Stadium during the event featuring renowned Argentine footballer Lionel Messi on December 13.
The Governor stated, “I will provide a report addressing these issues to the Union government. Additionally, I will offer recommendations to the West Bengal government on necessary precautions for future large-scale events. So far, only one organizer has been detained for the mismanagement, but this is merely the beginning. All individuals accountable for this significant oversight must face arrest,” he expressed to reporters following an event at Lok Bhavan.
Bose emphasized that both the state administration and police present at the stadium share responsibility for the incidents that transpired, highlighting their accountability for the failures.
He remarked, “The management system completely failed. It is astonishing that there were no prior guidelines established for such a major event. The stadium is a public asset, and it was the administration's responsibility to safeguard it from damage. The administrative and police officials present that day did not fulfill their obligations. Appropriate actions should be taken against them as well.”
The event was marred by disorder, with accusations of inadequate crowd control, damage to public property, and insufficient arrangements, leading to widespread criticism from attendees and civil society organizations.
State Sports Minister Aroop Biswas was present at the stadium alongside Messi during the event. Numerous spectators, civil society members, and opposition leaders have claimed that while Biswas and his family were close to the football star, ticket holders who paid premium prices were denied proper access to Messi.
These claims have intensified the political debate surrounding the event, with opposition parties accusing the state government of severe mismanagement and favoritism.
When questioned if his report would specifically address Sports Minister Aroop Biswas's involvement, the Governor refrained from providing a direct answer.
“I will relay all pertinent information to my constitutional superiors. Until then, I will refrain from making any public statements,” Governor Ananda Bose stated.
The Governor's comments come as pressure mounts on the state government to establish accountability for the failures during this high-profile event, which garnered significant public interest and expectations.