Ex-Bengal Minister Aroop Biswas questioned in Lionel Messi event irregularities case
Former West Bengal Sports Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Aroop Biswas appeared before the Bidhannagar South Police on Tuesday for questioning in connection with the alleged irregularities during football icon Lionel Messi's event at Salt Lake Stadium in December 2025.
Biswas, who has aligned with the rebel faction within the TMC, recorded his statement before investigators. Police said the information provided by him is being examined along with other evidence collected during the investigation.
The Calcutta High Court has granted Biswas interim protection from arrest until August 17 and directed the police to submit a status report on the probe by July 10.
The case stems from a complaint filed on May 17 by Shatadru Dutta, the main organiser of Messi's India tour. Dutta accused Biswas of cheating, criminal intimidation and extortion, alleging that nearly 22,000 tickets for the event were sold in the black market and that the former minister misused his official position to influence the programme.
The event, held at Salt Lake Stadium on December 13, 2025, descended into chaos after a large number of people allegedly entered the venue without valid tickets. Several spectators who had purchased premium tickets complained of severe overcrowding, saying they were unable to properly watch Messi or enjoy the event.
Following the commotion, Messi left the stadium early, while angry spectators vandalised parts of the venue. The controversy sparked a political row in West Bengal, and Dutta was subsequently arrested. After securing bail, he accused Biswas of being responsible for the event's collapse and the financial losses incurred.
Messi's management team had also reportedly raised concerns over security arrangements and organisational lapses during the high-profile event.
