Kolkata Police Issue Summons to Former TMC Sports Minister Aroop Biswas in ‘Messi Fiasco’ Probe

In a development that has set the city’s political gossip buzzing, Kolkata police say they have formally summoned former Trinamool Congress (TMC) sports minister Aroop Biswas over the so‑called ‘Messi fiasco’ case. The summons, according to the police, was dispatched to the minister’s residence, yet Biswas remains untraceable at the moment.

For those who might have missed the backstory, the controversy erupted last year when a high‑value replica of a Lionel Messi jersey, allegedly procured through dubious channels, found its way into a government‑run sports scheme. Critics argued that the purchase flouted procurement norms and sparked questions about the misuse of public funds.

When the matter landed on the police radar, investigators began tracing the chain of approvals. Their inquiry quickly zeroed in on the sports ministry, and by extension, the minister who headed it – Aroop Biswas. The police claim that documents and financial ledgers point toward procedural lapses that could amount to an offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

“We have issued a summons under Section 173 of the CrPC. The individual is required to appear before the court on the stipulated date,” a senior police spokesperson told reporters. “If he fails to comply, the law permits us to take further action, including a possible arrest.”

Biswas, who stepped down from his ministerial post after the state elections, has not responded publicly. Sources close to the former minister suggest he might be laying low to avoid media glare, but the police remain undeterred. “We will pursue the case vigorously,” the officer added, hinting that the summons could be followed by a warrant if the minister continues to evade the process.

The episode has reignited a broader debate about accountability in West Bengal’s sports administration. Opposition parties have seized the moment, demanding a transparent inquiry and calling for stricter oversight of government‑funded sports initiatives.

For now, the courtroom will be the next arena where the ‘Messi fiasco’ drama unfolds, and all eyes will be on whether Aroop Biswas decides to show up or not.