HC rebukes Aroop Biswas over Messi case, grants protection with restrictions; takes away passport

Former Sports Minister Aroop Biswas received conditional interim protection from arrest from the High Court on Wednesday in connection with the controversy surrounding the Messi event. While granting relief, the court directed him to cooperate with the investigation, surrender his passport before the lower court, and refrain from leaving West Bengal without prior judicial permission. The court also made it clear that the police investigation would continue without interruption and that Aroop Biswas must appear before investigators as directed.

During the hearing, Justice Sougata Bhattacharya raised questions about Aroop Biswas's conduct during the Messi event and expressed concern over the alleged mismanagement surrounding the programme. Referring to photographs from the event, the judge remarked, “Is Messi your childhood friend that you hugged him like that?” The court also observed that the controversy related to the event had adversely affected West Bengal's image across the country.

The case stems from an FIR filed on May 17 by event organizer Shatadru Dutta at Bidhannagar South Police Station. The complaint accused Aroop Biswas of ticket black-marketing, extortion, cheating, criminal intimidation, fraud, and negligence in security arrangements during the event. Following the complaint, police summoned the former minister for questioning as part of the investigation.

Investigators had initially directed Aroop Biswas to appear before police on June 4. He subsequently sought additional time, citing illness. According to police, no medical documents or reports were submitted in support of that claim. He was later instructed to appear before Bidhannagar South Police Station by 11:00 AM on June 8. Police also reportedly pasted notices at his residence on June 7, but he did not appear before investigators.

Earlier, Aroop Biswas had approached the Barasat Court seeking anticipatory bail, but his plea was rejected. He subsequently moved the Calcutta High Court for relief. The High Court has now granted him interim protection subject to conditions, including surrendering his passport and complying with all directions issued during the course of the investigation into the allegations linked to the Messi event.