In brief
Lionel Messi's scheduled appearance at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium turned chaotic when fans, expecting a longer engagement, expressed their anger by hurling chairs and bottles after he departed early. West Bengal's Chief Minister expressed shock and announced an inquiry into the incident as the event's organizers came under scrutiny. Thousands had paid considerable sums for tickets, only for their hopes of an authentic Messi experience to be dashed as officials and celebrities overshadowed him on stage.
Angry fans attending Lionel Messi's tour of India ripped up seats and threw items towards the pitch after his appearance at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium.
Thousands of adoring supporters had paid up to 12,000 rupees (£100; $133) to catch a glimpse of the football star, but were left disappointed when he emerged to walk around the pitch and was obscured by a large group of officials and celebrities.
When the Argentina and Inter Miami forward was whisked away early by security after around 20 minutes, elements of the crowd turned hostile.
West Bengal's chief minister, Mamata Banerjee, said she was deeply disturbed and shocked by the events.
Announcing an enquiry, Banerjee apologized to Messi and sports lovers for the incident at the stadium.
The [enquiry] committee will conduct a detailed enquiry into the incident, fix responsibility, and recommend measures to prevent such occurrences in the future, the chief minister said.
A spokesperson for Messi stated that he fulfilled the time commitment that had been agreed in advance, referring to Banerjee's apology for details about the organization of the event.
A police official confirmed the arrest of the event's chief organiser, although specific details were not disclosed.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has clarified its non-involvement in the private event as authorities began discussions on how to potentially refund attendees.
Fans expressed their disappointment, with one stating, Only leaders and actors were surrounding Messi... why did they call us then? We have got a ticket for 12,000 rupees but were not even able to see his face. Another declared that they had paid a month's salary to see the star.
Messi is in India for his 'GOAT [greatest of all time] tour', featuring promotional events across major cities. His participation included the unveiling of a massive statue in Kolkata, which was pre-recorded for security reasons.
This event spiraled into chaos as frustrated fans stormed the pitch, vandalizing banners and objects, leading to calls for accountability and a public outcry for better event management.
