Politics
02 Jun, 2026
Messi fiasco: Police issue summons to ex-Bengal sports minister
Business To Business, Kolkata, 2nd June, 2026: Former West Bengal sports minister Aroop Biswas has been summoned by police in connection with the controversy popularly referred to as the "Messi fiasco" involving a proposed event at the Salt Lake stadium.
What happened?
Police on Tuesday issued a notice directing Biswas, a senior leader of the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), to appear before investigators at the Bidhannagar Dakshin Police Station on June 5.
Why was he summoned?
The summons follows a complaint filed by Satadru Dutta, who had previously been arrested in connection with the event during the TMC government's tenure.
According to the complaint, Dutta alleged:
- Irregularities in the distribution of tickets for the proposed event.
- Intimidation and related misconduct connected to the organisation of the programme.
The "Messi fiasco"
The controversy stemmed from plans involving an appearance by Argentine football star Lionel Messi in India. The event generated significant public interest, but disputes and allegations surrounding its organisation eventually led to police investigations and legal proceedings.
Current status
At present:
- The police have sought Biswas's appearance for questioning.
- No finding of guilt has been made against him.
- Investigators are examining the allegations raised in the complaint.
Political significance
The development is notable because it concerns a senior opposition TMC leader at a time of heightened political rivalry in West Bengal. Given the public interest surrounding the proposed Messi-related event and the subsequent controversy, the investigation is likely to attract considerable attention.
The outcome will depend on the evidence gathered by investigators and any further statements made by the parties involved.