West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has written to the state government seeking a detailed report on arrangements for Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi’s programme in Kolkata on Saturday. The move comes after several football fans complained that they could not access tickets to see their favourite player due to high prices, raising questions about public access to the event.
A Lok Bhavan official stated that the governor was concerned that only a few people willing to pay hefty sums could witness Messi in person. Bose reportedly wants clarity on the role of the state government in the event and why a private individual was allowed to earn from an occasion meant to celebrate sports and community engagement.
The programme, held at Salt Lake Stadium, featured music, dance, and an exhibition match between Mohun Bagan 'Messi' All Stars and Diamond Harbour 'Messi' All Stars. Messi also interacted with both teams, felicitated Bengal’s Santosh Trophy-winning side, and conducted a “Master Class with Messi” for children, highlighting the educational and promotional aspects of the visit.
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Fans had braved the December chill, lining up past midnight to welcome Messi, who arrived at 2:26 am with Argentina teammates Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suárez. Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and state dignitaries, including Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, were also part of the programme, emphasizing the star-studded nature of the event.
The governor’s inquiry seeks to address public discontent and ensure transparency in event management, particularly regarding ticket pricing and accessibility. Bose expressed shock that ordinary citizens were effectively barred from seeing Messi despite widespread excitement surrounding his GOAT India Tour 2025.
The controversy underscores ongoing concerns over privatization of public events and highlights the need for government oversight when national or international sports icons visit, ensuring fans from all backgrounds can participate in such high-profile celebrations.
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