Kolkata: Satadru Dutta, the main organizer and promoter of Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated ‘G.O.A.T. Tour of India’, was denied bail on Sunday and sent to 14-day police custody following the chaotic scenes that erupted at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium during the football legend’s visit.
The trouble began on Saturday afternoon when Messi, accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul, arrived at the stadium. Tens of thousands of fans had gathered, many having paid as much as Rs 14,000 per ticket, eager for a glimpse of the football superstar. What was expected to be a celebratory event quickly descended into chaos as fans surged forward, unable to see Messi, and began booing officials, throwing chairs, and tossing bottles. Security personnel were forced to intervene and escort the players off the field to ensure their safety.
The situation worsened as Messi was surrounded by politicians and dignitaries on the ground, further frustrating fans who were already packed tightly in the stands. The uncontrolled crowd led to tense and dangerous conditions, making it impossible for the event to continue smoothly.
During the turmoil, Satadru Dutta took to the public address system, urging the crowd to calm down. “Please leave him alone. Please vacate the ground,” he appealed, his voice breaking with emotion. Despite his repeated calls, the crowd continued to act aggressively, ignoring the organizer’s pleas.
Following the disruption, Dutta was arrested and brought before the Bidhannagar Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM). While his lawyer sought bail, police requested 14-day custody to investigate the incident and determine responsibility for the disorder. The court ultimately denied bail, ordering that Dutta remain in police custody.
The incident has sparked widespread criticism of the event’s organization, crowd management, and stadium security arrangements. Authorities are now investigating the logistical lapses that allowed the situation to escalate, while fans and officials alike are calling for stricter measures to prevent such chaos during high-profile visits in the future.