What Happened at Salt Lake Stadium During Messi's Visit? An Investigation Unfolds!
Investigation Launched into Stadium Vandalism
Kolkata: An inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the vandalism that occurred at Salt Lake Stadium during an event featuring Argentine football legend Lionel Messi. The committee has proposed the establishment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve deeper into the incident, as reported by an official on Tuesday.
The panel, led by retired Justice Asim Kumar Roy, submitted its initial findings just three days after its formation on Monday.
A committee member stated, "This incident necessitates a comprehensive and impartial investigation. We have suggested creating an SIT to determine accountability and any procedural failures."
The committee was established under the directive of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and includes Chief Secretary Manoj Pant and Home Secretary Nandini Chakraborty, following disturbances during Messi's visit to Kolkata on December 13.
The preliminary report raised significant concerns regarding breaches of standard operating procedures, particularly about the entry of water bottles into the venue.
"According to current regulations, spectators are prohibited from bringing water bottles into the stadium. How were they found inside?" questioned the committee member.
The report was finalized and submitted on Monday night.
During a press conference on Tuesday morning, Roy remarked, "It is quite unusual for water bottle stalls to have been set up within the stadium. This deviation from established protocols requires thorough investigation."
The committee has also recommended disciplinary action against the agency responsible for managing stadium operations.
"Accountability cannot be established without identifying the lapses of the agencies involved. Necessary departmental actions should be initiated," the report emphasized.
Additionally, the committee has called for an SIT investigation into the vandalism and suggested reviewing the issue of ticket refunds.
"We must consider whether spectators should receive refunds due to the disruptions and damages incurred," Roy stated.
In the aftermath of the vandalism, the event's main organizer, Shatadru Dutta, has been arrested, along with five others by Bidhannagar Police.
A senior officer from the Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate mentioned, "We are interrogating all individuals involved in organizing and managing the event to establish accountability."
Representatives from agencies responsible for water supply, ticket sales, and other logistical aspects of the event have been summoned for questioning.
Six individuals are scheduled to be interrogated today to assess any negligence during Messi's visit," the officer added.