Former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has initiated legal action against Uttam Saha, president of the Argentina Fan Club of Kolkata, by filing a defamation case seeking ₹50 crore in damages. The move follows allegations that linked Ganguly to the mismanagement and chaos surrounding Lionel Messi‘s visit to Kolkata earlier this month.
The complaint was lodged at Lalbazar after Saha allegedly made public statements connecting Ganguly to the disorder at Yuva Bharati Stadium during the Messi programme on Saturday, December 13. Ganguly has described the allegations as “false, malicious, offensive and defamatory” claims a TOI report quoting the official complaint by the ex-India cricketer.
“The complaint states that he deliberately levelled serious allegations against Ganguly without any factual basis,” a police officer told PTI.
Ganguly denies role in organising Messi event
In his filing, Ganguly, currently president of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), categorically denied having any role in organising or managing the event. He stated that his presence at the stadium was strictly as an invited guest and that he had no involvement in the planning, logistics or execution of the programme.
The complaint specifically challenges claims that Ganguly acted as a middleman in the management of the event, which was overseen by its main organiser, Satadru Dutta. His legal representatives have issued a notice to Saha, demanding a public retraction and compensation for the alleged damage to his public image.
Legal move adds to fallout from chaotic Kolkata visit
The defamation case comes amid the controversy surrounding Messi’s much-anticipated visit to Kolkata, which descended into chaos due to poor crowd control and logistical lapses. Following the incident, organiser Satadru Dutta was detained for questioning by authorities.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee later issued a public apology on X, expressing regret over the mismanagement of the event and apologising to Lionel Messi and football fans who were unable to see the Argentine star properly.
Event sparks wider debate on crowd management and VIP culture
During the programme at Yuva Bharati Stadium (also known as the Salt Lake Stadium), Ganguly was present in a separate enclosure. As the situation in the stands deteriorated, he was seen exiting the venue, visibly disappointed by the turn of events.
The Messi programme was widely criticised for poor planning, leaving fans frustrated despite paying high ticket prices. Scenes of disorder dominated coverage, drawing national and international attention to the challenges of hosting high-profile sporting events in India.
The incident also reignited debate over VIP culture at major sports functions. Videos and reports highlighted limited fan interaction with Messi, while officials and invited guests occupied the field area further fuelling public anger and intensifying the backlash against the organisers.