Former West Bengal sports minister Aroop Biswas was questioned by police in connection with the controversy
June 18, 2026: The West Bengal Police on Thursday questioned former sports minister Aroop Biswas for nearly three hours in connection with the chaos surrounding the Lionel Messi India GOAT Tour event held in December 2025. According to officials, Biswas had previously skipped three summons before appearing for questioning. Police have asked him to appear again on June 22 as the investigation continues.
Speaking after the questioning, Biswas said the matter was sub-judice and declined to comment further. He stated that he would cooperate fully with investigators and appear whenever required. The probe stems from a complaint filed by event organiser Satadru Dutta, who accused Biswas, TMC councillor Jui Biswas and former police commissioner Rajeev Kumar of sabotaging the high-profile event.
The December event sparked widespread controversy after thousands of fans, who purchased tickets costing between ₹4,500 and ₹18,000, were left disappointed when Lionel Messi was barely visible and the programme ended within minutes. Dutta alleged that complimentary tickets were misused and sold illegally. The controversy has added to Aroop Biswas’ troubles, coming shortly after his removal as TMC treasurer and the arrest of his brother Swarup Biswas in a separate extortion and intimidation case.