Bengal's 'Messi Fiasco': A Renewed Investigation and Sports Revamp

West Bengal's new BJP government, led by Sports Minister Nisith Pramanik, plans to investigate last year's 'Messi fiasco' at the Salt Lake Stadium. Focus will be on discovering any administrative lapses or irregularities and revamping the state's sports infrastructure to promote young athletes.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Kolkata | Updated: 12-05-2026 19:22 IST | Created: 12-05-2026 19:22 IST
Bengal's 'Messi Fiasco': A Renewed Investigation and Sports Revamp
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The newly elected BJP government in West Bengal, under Sports Minister Nisith Pramanik's leadership, is poised to delve into the 'Messi fiasco' that unsettled the Salt Lake stadium last year. Files regarding the controversial event, marked by mass mismanagement, are said to be under review.

Pramanik announced plans to scrutinize aspects such as ticket sales, security arrangements, and administrative missteps during Lionel Messi's visit. This comes amidst past spectators' grievances over missed opportunities to see the icon due to overcrowding. Prominent figures criticized then sports minister Aroop Biswas for the chaos.

While addressing the press, Pramanik vowed reforms to state sports infrastructure, eyeing future major sporting events to compensate disappointed fans. The investigation aims to uncover any corruption within the previous administration to renew Bengal's sporting legacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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