Chaotic Scenes Unfold in Kolkata as Lionel Messi's Visit Turns Sour
Tensions were high in Kolkata as the city grappled with the aftermath of Lionel Messi's brief appearance at Salt Lake Stadium. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has distanced itself from the chaos that ensued, clarifying that it was not involved in the event that led to angry fans invading the pitch and causing mayhem.
Messi's Short Trip Ends in Chaos
The Argentine superstar's short 20-minute appearance on the pitch was marred by unruly behavior from fans, who threw chairs and bottles onto the field. Messi was surrounded by a large entourage of over a hundred people, including security forces and VIPs, as he made his way onto the pitch.
Disturbing scenes from the stadium showed fans vandalizing VIP sofas and attempting to set fires, escalating the situation further. In response to the chaos, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee issued an apology to Messi and initiated an enquiry commission to address the incident.
Organiser Arrested
The chief organiser of the event, Satadru Dutta, was swiftly arrested by the Kolkata police at the airport in coection with the chaotic events that unfolded at Salt Lake Stadium. The situation remains tense as authorities work to restore order and investigate the circumstances surrounding Messi's visit.
AIFF's Response
The AIFF expressed deep concern over the events at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, emphasizing that the gathering to witness Messi, Luis Suarez, and Rodrigo de Paul was a private event organized by a PR agency. The football federation sought to clarify its non-involvement in the organization and management of the event.
The saga continues as Kolkata grapples with the fallout of Messi's visit, with ongoing updates on the situation as it unfolds.