Police seek more time to submit findings on Messi fan unrest in Kolkata

West Bengal police have approached the Calcutta High Court for an extension to present their report on the alleged fan unrest during Lionel Messi's visit to Salt Lake Stadium. Justice Saugat Bhattacharya scheduled the subsequent hearing for 11 August, giving the police additional weeks to finalize their submission.

Counsel for the state highlighted that a recent reshuffle within the Bidhannagar City Police department slowed the drafting process, thereby justifying the request for a later deadline.

The controversy stems from Messi's 13 December appearance, which was criticised for poor crowd control and inadequate security arrangements. Several attendees asserted that, despite paying premium prices, they were unable to watch the Argentine striker. Subsequent to the event, a handful of spectators reportedly engaged in vandalism and ignited small fires inside the arena.

The High Court had previously mandated an independent probe and the establishment of a committee to examine all allegations. Former sports minister Aroop Biswas is among those under scrutiny, although the court has provided him with temporary protection against arrest.

Satdru Dutta, the organiser who was initially arrested and later released on bail, accused Biswas of flouting event protocols and maintaining undue proximity to Messi throughout the programme. Dutta further contended that the presence of influential figures on the field prevented ticket‑holders from having a clear view of the player.

Following the incident, two separate FIRs were lodged at Bidhannagar South police station—one resulting in Dutta's detention and another leading to multiple arrests for alleged looting and arson. After a change in the state's political leadership, Biswas turned to the High Court for safety, after which the bench directed a fresh, independent investigation and the formation of a new committee.