Messi Event in Kolkata: Organiser's Custody Extended Amid Allegations of Corruption and Mismanagement
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{ "title": "Messi Event in Kolkata: Organiser's Custody Extended Amid Allegations of Corruption and Mismanagement", "article": "Kolkata, West Bengal: In a dramatic turn of events, a court has extended the police custody of Satadru Dutta, the chief organiser of the Lionel Messi event in Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium, until January 9. The move comes after a series of allegations surfaced against Dutta, including corruption and mismanagement worth ₹23 crore. Dutta was arrested on December 13 for alleged mismanagement of the event, which turned violent and chaotic after Messi's brief appearance. The police claim that Dutta entered into contracts with food and beverage suppliers without government approval and received ₹60 lakh in cash, while the official contract value stood at ₹40 lakh. The investigation has revealed that tickets worth ₹19 crore were sold, with over 34,000 tickets purchased. The police also pointed out that no professional sports event management company was appointed for the Kolkata programme, unlike in three other cities. Messi's appearance was restricted to 20 minutes, fuelling speculation that the event was pre-planned. The prosecution argued that Dutta's influence and the need for further investigation into financial transactions justify denying him bail. The court has now extended his police custody until January 9, as the investigation continues. The incident has raised questions about the management of high-profile events in the city and the accountability of event organisers."
