Fresh Summons for Ex-Bengal Minister Aroop Biswas in Messi Event Chaos Case

The former sports minister has been ordered to appear before investigators on June 8 after failing to attend earlier questioning regarding the 2025 Salt Lake Stadium controversy.

The legal scrutiny surrounding the high-profile Lionel Messi event held in Kolkata has intensified, as Bidhannagar Dakshin police issued a fresh summons to former West Bengal sports minister Aroop Biswas. Investigators have directed the Trinamool Congress leader to appear at the station on June 8 to record his statement regarding the logistical collapse and security failures that marred the December 13, 2025, football exhibition.

This latest development follows a period of non-compliance by the former minister, who had previously bypassed a police deadline. Citing health-related concerns, Biswas had indicated an inability to participate in the probe, with some reports noting he had requested a 14-day extension to address the allegations. Police have now reiterated the urgency of the matter by setting a definitive date for his appearance.

Allegations of Extortion and Black-Marketing

The case stems from a formal FIR lodged by the event’s primary organiser, Shatadru Dutta. In his complaint, Dutta has levelled serious accusations against the former minister, including criminal intimidation, cheating, and the illicit black-marketing of stadium tickets. The friction between the two parties traces back to the aftermath of the event, during which Dutta was arrested and spent 37 days in custody before being granted bail. Upon his release, the organiser publicly blamed Biswas for the financial losses and the ultimate breakdown of the programme.

The event, which was expected to be a milestone for football in Kolkata, dissolved into disorder when thousands of individuals—many allegedly without valid access—breached the Salt Lake Stadium perimeter. The subsequent overcrowding prevented legitimate ticket holders from witnessing the football icon, eventually forcing Messi to make a swift exit. The resulting frustration led to widespread vandalism, transforming the stadium into a scene of chaos.

A Lingering Political Shadow

The scandal triggered a significant political storm in Bengal, with opposition figures targeting the state government over the perceived lack of accountability and the alleged lapses in planning. Beyond the summons issued to the former minister, the broader investigation into the incident has seen ongoing activity; authorities have previously made arrests and summoned representatives from firms responsible for ticket distribution and logistics to piece together the chain of command.

As the case continues to unfold, the focus remains on whether the former minister’s involvement extended beyond administrative oversight into the criminal actions alleged by the organisers. For the public, the incident remains a stark example of how a marquee sports event can descend into a legal quagmire when security protocols and administrative transparency are compromised.