Ex-Bengal minister Aroop Biswas appears for questioning in Messi event case

Ex-Bengal Minister Aroop Biswas Faces Police Inquiry in Messi Event Scandal

Ex Bengal minister Aroop Biswas appears – Former West Bengal minister Aroop Biswas, who once held the key portfolio of sports, is now under scrutiny following his appearance in a police inquiry linked to the controversial Lionel Messi event held at Salt Lake Stadium in December 2025. The questioning, which took place at Bidhannagar South police station, marks a pivotal moment in the investigation into alleged misconduct surrounding the high-profile gathering. Biswas’s role in the event has been central to the probe, with authorities examining his involvement in the logistics and ticketing process.

Background of the Messi Event and Alleged Irregularities

The event, which was billed as a major cultural and sports initiative, drew thousands of attendees eager to witness the legendary footballer. However, the day of the event became a spectacle of chaos, with crowds overwhelming the stadium’s infrastructure. The organizers, led by Shatadru Dutta, faced backlash after reports emerged of nearly 22,000 tickets being sold through unauthorized channels. This raised questions about transparency and the misuse of ministerial authority, as Biswas was accused of leveraging his position to influence the event’s operations.

“Biswas’s statement has been recorded, and the information provided by him is being examined alongside other evidence in the case,” a police official said. This marks the first formal step in a legal process that has already drawn attention from both media and political circles. The complaint filed by Dutta on May 17, 2025, alleged that Biswas had engaged in fraudulent activities, criminal intimidation, and extortion, all of which could lead to serious charges if proven.

Legal Proceedings and Interim Protection

The Calcutta High Court has issued interim protection to Biswas, ensuring he cannot be arrested until August 17, 2025. This decision comes after the police submitted a detailed report on the case, which includes accounts of the event’s logistical failures and security lapses. The court also mandated that the police provide a progress update on July 10, 2025, as part of its efforts to expedite the investigation. The legal battle surrounding the Messi event underscores the gravity of the allegations and the potential consequences for the ex-minister.

During the event, Messi’s management team highlighted the shortcomings in the stadium’s preparation, pointing to inadequate crowd control and subpar facilities as contributing factors to the disorder. The incident not only tarnished the event’s reputation but also sparked a public outcry, with social media platforms abuzz with criticism of the government’s handling of the affair. Ex-Bengal minister Aroop Biswas, who had been a key figure in organizing the event, now finds himself at the center of a political storm that has implications for his career and the state’s administrative credibility.

Public and Political Reactions

Attendees at the Messi event expressed frustration over the overcrowding and poor organization, with some claiming that they were unable to fully enjoy the experience. The public’s dissatisfaction has fueled political debates, with critics accusing the state government of negligence. Shatadru Dutta, the event’s main organizer, has since attributed the incident to Biswas’s alleged mismanagement, emphasizing that the losses incurred could have been avoided with better planning. The controversy has also led to discussions about the need for stricter oversight of high-profile events funded by public resources.

As the investigation unfolds, Ex-Bengal minister Aroop Biswas remains under police scrutiny, with his actions during the Messi event being scrutinized for potential legal repercussions. The case highlights the intersection of politics and public events, where ministerial decisions can have far-reaching impacts. Legal experts suggest that the evidence gathered so far could lead to further actions, including the possibility of charges being filed against Biswas. The outcome of this inquiry may serve as a turning point in the ex-minister’s political journey and set a precedent for accountability in future state-sponsored events.