Why is SIT Investigating the Disruptions at Messi's Kolkata Event?
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Synopsis
The Special Investigation Team is actively investigating the disruptions during Lionel Messi's recent Kolkata event, taking significant steps to prevent funds from reaching the event's organiser, Satadru Dutta, amidst serious allegations of mismanagement. This story unfolds with numerous documents recovered and a high-stakes financial situation at play.
Key Takeaways
- SIT has halted the transfer of ticket sales funds.
- Documents related to the event were recovered from Satadru Dutta's home.
- Rs 22 crore seized from Dutta's account.
- Chaos erupted due to overwhelming crowd during Messi's appearance.
- State government officials are being held accountable.
Kolkata, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) examining the turmoil during football icon Lionel Messi's event in Kolkata last week has halted the transfer of ticket sales revenue from the Yuba Bharati Krirangan to the bank account of the primary organiser, Satadru Dutta.
In conjunction with this, several documents concerning Messi's event were discovered at Dutta's residence in Rishra, located in the Hooghly district, as per police reports.
Furthermore, authorities have reportedly seized Rs 22 crore from Dutta's bank account.
Dutta is currently in police custody after his arrest on December 13.
On Friday, SIT agents conducted a raid at Dutta's home in Rishra.
During their investigation, various documents related to the event and several bank accounts were obtained.
Sources indicate that police acted promptly after finding the account-related paperwork.
The SIT has confirmed that a total of Rs 22 crore has been confiscated from Dutta's bank account.
It is also reported that the total value of tickets sold at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan during the incident approached Rs 20 crore.
The SIT is rapidly working to ensure that this money does not reach Dutta's bank account.
According to insiders, the third-party intermediary company responsible for ticket sales has received directives from the police.
This company has been instructed not to transfer any ticket sale funds to Dutta's bank account under any circumstances.
This action is taken with the understanding that any compensation for the Yuba Bharati event will be drawn from that money.
On the flip side, Satadru Dutta asserts that he bears no responsibility for the disturbances that occurred on the day of the event.
However, due to the overwhelming crowd at the stadium, he was unable to execute his event as intended.
Sources indicate that Dutta has pointed fingers at the West Bengal government for the mismanagement that transpired.
He has noted the involvement of several influential figures within the state government concerning the allocation of passes for the football event.
Dutta alleges that this contributed to the excessive number of attendees.
While a significant segment of the state government has held the private organiser responsible for the chaos, Dutta has, during police interrogations, shifted the blame to the state government.
On December 13, the Salt Lake Stadium was packed long before Messi's event commenced.
Fans eagerly awaited their favorite footballer.
Upon Messi's arrival, many fans crowded around him, attempting to capture photos.
Messi's security team was present as well.
A state of chaos ensued.
Many spectators complained that they could barely see Messi.
Messi exited the field after just 22 minutes, after which vandalism erupted in the stadium.
Chairs and bottles were hurled onto the field from the stands.
Numerous spectators broke down gates to enter the stadium.
Vandalism occurred in both the galleries and restrooms of the Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
In the aftermath of this event, the state government established an investigation committee, leading to the arrest of organiser Satadru Dutta.
On Tuesday, Aroop Biswas stepped down as the West Bengal Sports Minister, while top IPS officials, including Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar, were issued show cause notices.
Point of View
I stand by the idea that accountability is crucial in such scenarios. The SIT's actions reflect a commitment to transparency and justice, ensuring that all involved are held responsible for the events that transpired during Messi's much-anticipated arrival in Kolkata.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the investigation?
The Special Investigation Team is actively investigating the events surrounding Lionel Messi's Kolkata event, focusing on the financial transactions related to ticket sales.
How much money has been seized in the investigation?
A total of Rs 22 crore has been seized from the bank account of organiser Satadru Dutta.
What led to the chaos during Messi's event?
The chaos was attributed to an overwhelming crowd, which Dutta claims was exacerbated by mismanagement and interference from government officials.
What charges does Satadru Dutta face?
Satadru Dutta faces allegations related to mismanagement and is currently in police custody following his arrest.
What actions have been taken by the state government in response?
The state government has formed an investigation committee and several officials have faced disciplinary actions, including resignations.
