Aroop Biswas resigns over chaos at Messi's event; CM has accepted it, says Kunal Ghosh

West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas resigned from his post on Tuesday following the government's decision to launch a high-level investigation into the chaotic events that marred Lionel Messi's GOAT Tour at the Salt Lake Stadium. Biswas, who has faced severe public and political criticism for the massive mismanagement and lapses, submitted a handwritten resignation letter to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, stating that he was stepping down to ensure a "free and fair investigation" into the incident. As per reports, the Chief Minister has accepted the resignation.

The resignation of Biswas, a senior figure within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and a trusted aide of the Chief Minister, highlights the seriousness with which the ruling party views the controversy, especially just months ahead of the crucial assembly elections. The incident has left both the TMC and the government significantly embarrassed, with the Opposition, particularly the BJP, using the chaos and vandalism to aggressively attack the state administration for organizational failures.

The chaos on Saturday began after frustrated spectators, who had paid up to ₹15,000 for tickets, grew irate and began vandalizing the stadium when the Argentinian star left the venue within just 20 minutes. The fans’ anger was fueled by allegations that influential individuals and politicians like Biswas had constantly surrounded Messi, preventing ticket-paying spectators from catching a proper glimpse of their idol. This frustration led to vandalism, with spectators throwing bottles and ripping up seats, leading to the arrest of the event's chief organizer, Satadru Dutta, and widespread social media backlash.