Organizer Satadru Dutta criticized security agencies and law enforcement for the disorder during Lionel Messi’s appearance in Kolkata for the GOAT India Tour 2025. Dutta alleged that the local authorities failed to implement the planned high-level security measures for the event, which hosted Messi, Mamata Banerjee, Shah Rukh Khan, and Sourav Ganguly. Dutta emphasized the significant security lapse, citing failures in Z category security arrangements and the presence of high-profile personalities.
Multiple meetings were held with police and security officials before the event, where all operational details were shared in advance. Dutta expressed disappointment over the security failure, despite extensive planning and coordination with authorities. Security access and movement around Messi were meticulously planned, with proximity cards issued to a limited number of individuals allowed near the football star.
Senior police officials were briefed about the event’s arrangements days before its commencement, ensuring that all necessary protocols were communicated and understood. However, the event faced criticism and scrutiny following crowd disorder and alleged breaches of protocol that marred Messi’s anticipated visit to Kolkata.
