West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas Resigns Following Messi Event Chaos in Kolkata

Ministerial Resignation Amidst Public Outcry

Aroop Biswas, the Sports Minister of West Bengal, tendered his resignation from the sports portfolio on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, following severe criticism over the mismanagement of an event featuring football icon Lionel Messi in Kolkata. The event, part of Messi's 'GOAT India Tour', took place at the Salt Lake Stadium (Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan) on December 13, 2025, and descended into chaos.

In a handwritten letter addressed to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Biswas requested to be relieved of his duties as Sports Minister, citing the need for a 'free and fair investigation' into the incident. While stepping down from the sports department, Biswas will retain his position as a cabinet minister, continuing to oversee the Power department.

Chaos Unfolds at Salt Lake Stadium

The highly anticipated appearance by Lionel Messi in Kolkata on December 13 was marred by significant crowd control issues and alleged mismanagement. Fans, who had paid substantial amounts for tickets, were left frustrated and angry after Messi's appearance lasted only approximately 20 minutes, significantly shorter than the scheduled 45 minutes. Many spectators reported being unable to get a clear view of the Argentine star due to him being surrounded by officials and VIPs.

The frustration escalated into widespread chaos, with reports of:

• Fans throwing objects onto the field.
• Vandalism, including the ripping up of stadium seats and damage estimated at around ₹2 crore.
• Attempts by some individuals to storm the field.

The event's chief organizer, Satadru Dutta, was subsequently arrested in connection with the mismanagement.

Chief Minister Takes Charge and Orders Probe

Following the debacle, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her dismay, stating she was 'deeply disturbed and shocked' by the mismanagement. She accepted Aroop Biswas's resignation and has temporarily taken direct charge of the Sports and Youth Welfare Department. The state government has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the incident.

Key actions taken include:

• The constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
• The formation of an inquiry commission led by retired Calcutta High Court Justice Ashim Kumar Ray.
• Issuance of show-cause notices to senior police officials, including Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar and Bidhannagar City Police Commissioner Mukesh Kumar, for alleged lapses.

The swift action by the Chief Minister and the ongoing investigation underscore the seriousness with which the state government is addressing the public and political backlash generated by the chaotic event.