West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that the state government will refund ticket money to approximately 33,000 attendees of the recent Lionel Messi event held at Yuva Bharati Krirangan. Adhikari attributed the chaos surrounding the event to mismanagement by the previous Trinamool Congress government, emphasizing the current administration’s commitment to addressing the fallout from the situation.
The refund announcement also turned into a political attack on the previous Trinamool Congress administration. Former Sports Minister Aroop Biswas has faced scrutiny over the event. The controversy has also led to legal proceedings, with the Calcutta High Court recently extending his interim protection while allowing the investigation to continue.
CM Adhikari said the state government is trying to find a way to refund around 33,000 affected spectators. Reports have said tickets were sold for Rs 4,000 and Rs 6,000.
The issue is being examined through administrative and legal channels before the payments can be made. CM Adhikari criticised the earlier government for failing to give enough attention to sports and pointed to the Messi event as an example of poor management.
Security Breaches Disrupt Event Featuring Messi
The recent event featuring Lionel Messi was cut short due to significant crowding and security issues. Messi’s team later reported that serious breaches of security protocols contributed to the early conclusion of the program, disappointing many fans who had anticipated a longer appearance.
In related discussions, Chief Minister Adhikari highlighted the Khelo India programme, indicating ongoing conversations with the Union Sports Ministry regarding its future development.
