Bengal Govt Issues Show-Cause Notices to DGP, Senior Officers Over Messi Event Mismanagement

Kolkata: The West Bengal government has issued show-cause notices to Director General of Police (DGP) and several senior police officers in connection with the alleged mismanagement during the Lionel Messi–related event held at Salt Lake Stadium. The move follows widespread criticism over crowd control failures and administrative lapses reported on the day of the event.

According to official sources, the state government has sought detailed explanations from the top police leadership regarding the planning, deployment, and overall handling of security arrangements. The notices reportedly question whether standard operating procedures were followed and whether adequate preventive measures were taken despite advance knowledge of the massive public turnout.

In a significant disciplinary action, the state government has suspended Bidhannagar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Aneesh Sarkar. The suspension has been ordered on grounds of alleged negligence of duty related to the event. Alongside the suspension, departmental proceedings have been initiated against the officer to examine his role and responsibility in the matter.

The event, which drew an unexpectedly large crowd of football fans, witnessed chaos in and around the stadium area. Several reports highlighted poor crowd management, traffic disruptions, and safety concerns, prompting the state administration to order an internal review.

Sources in the administration indicated that accountability would be fixed after examining reports from the police and district administration. Further action against other officers may follow depending on the findings of the inquiry.

The state government has emphasized that public safety and administrative preparedness are non-negotiable, particularly during high-profile events involving large gatherings. It has also reiterated that lapses in duty will invite strict disciplinary action, irrespective of rank.