A statue of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi was secured with ropes on VIP Road in Lake Town, Kolkata. Local residents reported that the statue was swaying in strong winds, prompting authorities to inspect it.
Officials visited the site after receiving complaints to check the stability and safety of the installation. They took precautionary measures to keep the statue secure amid changing weather and public safety concerns.
70 foot Messi Statue secured with ropes in Kolkata
A contractor at the site said, “We came to inspect Messi’s statue after reports that it was swaying in the wind. The higher authorities will decide the next steps.”
Authorities are still monitoring the statue and evaluating if additional reinforcements or changes are necessary for its long-term stability.
This development comes days after a controversy involving Messi’s “GOAT Tour” event in Kolkata. Last week, SatadruDutta, the main organizer of the tour, filed a complaint against former West Bengal Sports Minister Arup Biswas. He alleged misconduct, including the misuse of tickets for Messi’s event and pressure regarding access card distribution.
Spectators frustrate and breach gates
Messi’s appearance in Kolkata had earlier led to disorder at Salt Lake Stadium. Spectators who had purchased expensive tickets began throwing bottles and trying to breach gates between stands after the footballer left the venue early.
Several fans also criticized the event management, claiming that VIPs and political figures monopolized access to Messi, preventing many attendees from seeing the Argentine star.
The situation worsened when some spectators allegedly tried to enter restricted areas and damage parts of the event setup, including tents and goalposts. Police later intervened and used mild force to disperse the crowd and restore order.
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