Angry fans attending Lionel Messi's tour of India ripped up seats and threw items towards the pitch after his appearance at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium. Thousands of adoring supporters had paid up to 12,000 rupees (£100; $133) to catch a glimpse of the football star, but were left disappointed when he emerged to walk around the pitch and was obscured by a large group of officials and celebrities. When the Argentina and Inter Miami forward was whisked away early by security after around 20 minutes, elements of the crowd turned hostile. West Bengal's chief minister, Mamata Banerjee, said she was 'deeply disturbed and shocked' by the events. Announcing an enquiry, Banerjee apologized to Messi and 'sports lovers' for the incident at the stadium. The enquiry committee will conduct a detailed investigation into the incident, fix responsibility, and recommend measures to prevent future occurrences. A spokesperson for Messi noted that he fulfilled his time commitment as planned, and a police official confirmed the arrest of the event's chief organizer. Authorities will also look into refunding ticket holders. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) clarified that it had no involvement in the private event. Messi is in India for his 'GOAT tour', participating in promotional events in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi. The tour began with the unveiling of a 70ft statue of himself in Kolkata. Discontent grew in the stadium as fans, chanting and wearing 'I love Messi' headbands, felt cheated when only officials surrounded Messi. Frustrations peaked when fans stormed the pitch, vandalizing property in their anger. One ticket holder stated, 'We paid the equivalent of a month's salary to see Messi, not politicians.' Accompanied by his Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez and Argentina's Rodrigo de Paul, Messi had initially waved to the fans but timed his departure poorly, fueling the crowd's rage further. Kolkata, known for its passion for football, saw fans hoping for a glimpse of their idol turn out in droves for the event.
Chaos Erupts as Fans Clash with Security at Messi Event in Kolkata

Chaos Erupts as Fans Clash with Security at Messi Event in Kolkata
Disappointed fans express their frustration with angry outbursts at Lionel Messi's promotional event in Kolkata, leading to chaos and violence.
An event meant to celebrate Lionel Messi in Kolkata turned chaotic as angry fans hurled objects and vandalized property after the football star's abrupt departure. Thousands had gathered, paying significant sums for a chance to see him, but frustrations brewed when he was obscured during a brief appearance. West Bengal's chief minister has announced an inquiry into the incident.
















