Aroop got handsy with Messi to click pics: GOAT team’s explosive mail
The email has been sent from Messi's team who had come to Kolkata for the GOAT event as his advisor and was present during the fiasco at the Yuva Bharati stadium in Salt Lake.
Fresh controversy has emerged over Lionel Messi’s ‘GOAT India Tour’ event in Kolkata, with a member of the Argentine star’s team alleging that former West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas was responsible for the chaos that unfolded at Salt Lake Stadium during the football icon’s visit in December last year.
According to Bidhannagar Police sources, an email sent to Police Commissioner Tripurari Atharv by one of Messi’s advisers claimed that security arrangements at the event broke down after Biswas entered the field along with several unauthorised individuals.
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The adviser, who was present alongside Messi during the event, alleged that the former minister repeatedly approached the football superstar for photographs and physical interactions, creating an uncomfortable situation and contributing to growing concerns over the player’s security.
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Messi’s team raises security concerns
The email reportedly stated that only three accredited photographers were supposed to be present on the field. Instead, nearly 40 people gained access to the restricted area, leading to crowding around Messi and disrupting the planned programme.
According to the complaint, the unexpected influx of people left Messi’s entourage concerned about safety and ultimately forced changes to the scheduled appearance.
The communication further stressed that the incident was beyond the control of event organiser Satadru Dutta and that he should not be held responsible for Messi’s early departure from the venue.
Organiser cites email in ongoing legal battle
Dutta, who was arrested following the alleged mismanagement at the event, welcomed the contents of the email and said it would aid the ongoing investigation.
He has consistently accused Aroop Biswas of contributing to the disorder during Messi’s visit and has previously filed complaints with Bidhannagar Police over the matter.
The organiser has also challenged the legal protection granted to the former minister by the Calcutta High Court, with a petition filed before a division bench earlier this week.
Ticket distribution allegations resurface
Dutta has additionally alleged that around 70,000 tickets were printed for the event, claiming that Biswas received approximately 22,000 tickets due to his position and influence.
He has accused the former minister of distributing and selling those tickets, allegations that Biswas has denied.
Police have issued multiple notices summoning Biswas for questioning in connection with the case. While he reportedly skipped the initial appearance citing health reasons, investigators are continuing their probe into the alleged security lapses and event mismanagement.
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