Mismanagement at Salt Lake Stadium: Mamata Banerjee Orders Enquiry, Apologises to Lionel Messi and Fans.
Kolkata:
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today expressed deep shock and anguish over the mismanagement witnessed at Salt Lake Stadium during a major football-related event that drew thousands of sports lovers hoping to catch a glimpse of global football icon Lionel Messi.
In a strongly worded statement, the Chief Minister said she was “deeply disturbed and shocked” by the situation that unfolded at the venue, where a massive crowd had gathered. Acknowledging the disappointment and inconvenience caused to fans, Banerjee extended a public apology to Lionel Messi as well as to football enthusiasts who had assembled at the stadium.
“I sincerely apologise to Lionel Messi, as well as to all sports lovers and his fans, for the unfortunate incident,” the Chief Minister said, adding that the lapses in management were unacceptable.
Taking immediate action, Banerjee announced the constitution of a high-level enquiry committee to investigate the incident. The committee will be chaired by Justice (Retd.) Ashim Kumar Ray, with the Chief Secretary and the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home and Hill Affairs Department serving as members.
According to the Chief Minister, the committee has been tasked with conducting a detailed enquiry into the events leading to the mismanagement, fixing responsibility on those found accountable, and recommending concrete measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.
“The committee will thoroughly examine all aspects of the incident and suggest corrective steps to prevent such occurrences,” Banerjee stated.
Reiterating her regret, the Chief Minister once again extended her heartfelt apologies to sports lovers, emphasizing the state government’s commitment to maintaining proper arrangements and safety at major sporting events.
The incident has sparked widespread concern among football fans and sports organisers, with many calling for stricter planning and crowd management protocols for high-profile events in the state.
