Kolkata, India – A First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged against K. D. Singh, a former Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, in connection with alleged financial irregularities surrounding Argentinian football star Lionel Messi's visit to Kolkata in 2011. The complaint, filed by the Athletic Association of Bengal, accuses Singh's company, E M Sports & Entertainment Pvt Ltd, of defaulting on payments amounting to approximately ₹16 crore.

The FIR was registered following a complaint from the Athletic Association of Bengal, which asserts that it incurred substantial expenses for the high-profile international friendly match between Argentina and Venezuela. These expenses included costs related to ground infrastructure, player hospitality, security arrangements, and other logistical support for the event. The association claims that E M Sports & Entertainment Pvt Ltd, the primary organiser responsible for these financial commitments, failed to reimburse these expenditures as per their agreement.

The 2011 event marked Messi's inaugural visit to India, generating significant excitement among football enthusiasts in the country. The match, held at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, saw a large attendance and was considered a landmark occasion for Indian football. E M Sports & Entertainment Pvt Ltd had secured the rights to bring the Argentinian national team, featuring Messi, to play against Venezuela.

According to the complaint, the Athletic Association of Bengal advanced funds and managed various operational aspects of the event, anticipating full reimbursement from Singh’s company. However, the association alleges that despite repeated attempts to secure the outstanding amount over the years, the payment was not made, leading to the recent legal action. The complaint cites sections of the Indian Penal Code related to cheating and criminal breach of trust.

Key details surrounding the allegations include:

  • Event: International friendly match between Argentina and Venezuela, featuring Lionel Messi.
  • Date of Event: September 2, 2011.
  • Venue: Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata.
  • Amount Claimed: Approximately ₹16 crore in unpaid dues.
  • Complainant: Athletic Association of Bengal.
  • Accused Party: K. D. Singh and his company, E M Sports & Entertainment Pvt Ltd.
  • Allegations: Non-payment for infrastructure, hospitality, security, and operational costs.

K. D. Singh, a former Trinamool Congress MP, has been involved in other legal proceedings in the past concerning financial matters. The filing of this FIR initiates a formal police investigation into the allegations.

The Kolkata Police have commenced their investigation into the matter. This will involve examining relevant financial documents, agreements, and statements from all parties involved to ascertain the veracity of the claims. The outcome of the police probe will determine the subsequent legal course of action in this long-standing financial dispute.