Messi's India Event, sparking joy and chaos / SPORT.es Indian police confirmed Saturday that they arrested the person responsible for organizing Leo Messi's visit to Kolkata and demanded a written guarantee to ensure refunds for thousands of fans affected by the debacle. Lionel Messi's visit to India quickly devolved from a historic and moving event into utter chaos caused by Indian fans. The main organizer of the Argentine star's visit was arrested by Kolkata police following the 'confusion' that occurred at Salt Lake Stadium. Thousands of fans were enraged upon realizing that their interaction with 'No.10' was extremely brief. Rajeev Kumar, the Commissioner of Police for West Bengal, stated that the arrest was made following an official complaint after the incident. 'Fans felt frustrated and angry when they confirmed that Messi would not be playing a game. His plan was only to greet, meet a few people, and leave,' the official explained. Charges of Fraud The atmosphere in the stadium was explosive. As Messi left the venue under heavy security, some attendees threw objects onto the field. Commissioner Kumar added, 'The organizer promised in writing to refund the ticket costs. The situation is under control, and the person responsible has already been arrested.' Hours earlier, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee officially apologized and ordered an immediate investigation to identify the organizational failures. The central government took an even stronger stance. They labeled the event a 'fraud,' condemning the high prices charged for a show that ended in just 22 minutes and required Messi's hurried evacuation. Promotional Tour This visit was part of the 'GOAT Tour' to India, a world tour circulating through Asia alongside Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suarez. Upon arriving in Kolkata, India, Messi caused confusion. He arrived via a Gulfstream 5, a long-range private jet owned by the Surjet company. Alejandro Calian, a friend of De Paul, was also part of the entourage. Crowds of Indian fans and staff greeted them at Kolkata Airport. Messi, who had previously unveiled a virtual 21-meter statue of himself, departed for Hyderabad shortly after, visiting Salt Lake Stadium for the promotional event. Surrounded by thick security—politicians, dignitaries, and security personnel—Messi only managed a brief greeting and a partial lap of honor before being rushed out of the stadium due to safety concerns.
"Fans agree that the chaos was justified since VIPs hogged the view, sparking comparisons to other 'no-show' athletes (looking at you, ninja boy) and resulting in a brief jab session between rival fanbases."
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