Former West Bengal sports minister and ex-TMC MLA Aroop Biswas has been served a third notice by Bidhannagar South Police Station in connection with the investigation into the controversial Lionel Messi event held at Salt Lake Stadium last year. Police have directed Biswas to appear before investigators within 48 hours for questioning.
The fresh notice comes after Biswas failed to appear before police despite two earlier summonses issued in connection with an FIR lodged following allegations surrounding the organisation of the high-profile football event. According to police sources, the latest notice was issued after the former minister did not comply with previous directions to join the investigation.
The case stems from a complaint filed by event organiser Shatadru Dutta, who accused Biswas and others of offences including extortion, cheating, criminal intimidation and conspiracy linked to the conduct of the Lionel Messi programme at Yuva Bharati Krirangan. An FIR was subsequently registered at Bidhannagar South Police Station under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Earlier, Biswas had sought additional time to appear before investigators, with his legal counsel requesting a two-week extension. Police, however, issued a second summons and later escalated the matter after he again failed to appear. Investigators had reportedly questioned the absence of supporting medical documents for the extension request.
The controversy relates to the December event featuring Argentine football icon Lionel Messi, which was marred by allegations of mismanagement and overcrowding. Dutta has alleged that thousands of complimentary tickets were diverted and that spectators who purchased tickets were unable to properly view the event amid the chaos.
The investigation has gained renewed momentum following the change of government in West Bengal. Police are continuing to examine the allegations and have now asked Biswas to cooperate with the probe by appearing before officers within the stipulated 48-hour period.
