BJP Criticizes Mamata Banerjee Over Salt Lake Stadium Chaos

The BJP has intensified its criticism of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee following the chaotic events at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium during Argentine football star Lionel Messi’s appearance. The party has accused the state government of severe mismanagement and is demanding accountability for the incident.

Accountability Demanded by BJP Leaders

BJP leader Dilip Ghosh expressed that it is essential for Banerjee to take responsibility for the disturbances, labeling the situation as "deeply shameful" for West Bengal. He emphasized, “Merely apologizing is insufficient. Compensation should be awarded to those who spent money to attend, and all individuals responsible for this failure, including police, officials, and ministers, must face legal action.”

This criticism follows previous remarks by Suvendu Adhikari, the BJP’s leader of the opposition, who likewise accused the state government of mismanagement. Adhikari voiced three demands, including Banerjee’s resignation, in a pointed post on social media, stating, “Shame on you, Mamata Banerjee! The ‘Khela Hobe’ Circus turned into a TMC loot-fest at Yuva Bharati!”

Disappointment Among Fans

Adhikari accused the organizers and the administration of neglecting ordinary fans, as many were unable to see Messi due to VIP access. He remarketed, “While senior Trinamool Congress leaders surrounded Messi, real fans were left stuck in galleries, receiving just a fleeting glimpse of him on a giant screen.”

Furthermore, he criticized the prohibitive measures in place for spectators, mentioning that water bottles were banned, compelling fans to pay exorbitant prices for basic refreshments. Adhikari branded this situation as a “criminal assault on West Bengal’s pride.”

BJP’s Strong Response

BJP MP and spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi highlighted the incident’s impact, maintaining that it “ashamed every Indian.” He highlighted Banerjee’s expression of sorrow, remarking, “West Bengal is deeply devastated under your rule. This illustrates the tragic condition the state has reached.”

What Led to the Chaos at Salt Lake Stadium

The disturbances arose when thousands of fans grew frustrated after being unable to see Messi during what was supposed to be a two-hour event but was reduced to a mere 30 minutes. Messi arrived around 11:30 am, but was closely guarded by security and VIPs. His brief appearance triggered fan uproar, culminating in protests and vandalism, along with a police baton charge.

Many ticket holders, including those who paid premium prices, expressed their discontent about not being able to see Messi. The presence of politicians in key areas further exacerbated feelings of exclusion among fans. Outside the stadium, supporters conveyed that Messi had only been present for a short time before being whisked away for safety reasons.

This starkly contrasted with the earlier celebratory atmosphere in the city where Messi had unveiled a 70-foot statue of himself holding the FIFA World Cup trophy at Sree Bhumi Sporting Club, a moment that was met with widespread admiration.