In a significant political development, West Bengal's Sports Minister, Aroop Biswas, has formally offered to step down from his position. This move comes in the wake of a major controversy surrounding an event in Kolkata featuring global football icon Lionel Messi.
The Resignation Offer and Its Catalyst
The news broke publicly on 16 December 2025, when a copy of the resignation letter was shared on social media. According to the post, Biswas addressed the letter directly to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. In it, he expressed his desire to be relieved of his duties as the state's Sports Minister.
The catalyst for this drastic step is widely reported to be the logistical and organizational failures linked to the high-profile visit of Argentine superstar Lionel Messi to Kolkata. The event, which had generated massive public excitement, was reportedly marred by a series of operational glitches, described by many as a 'mess-up'. This perceived failure in execution appears to have prompted the minister to take moral responsibility.
Political Repercussions and Public Reaction
The offer of resignation has sent ripples through West Bengal's political circles. Aroop Biswas, a senior leader in the ruling Trinamool Congress, holds a significant portfolio. His decision to offer his resignation underscores the seriousness with which the state government is viewing the public and media backlash over the event's management.
Public reaction has been mixed, with some applauding the minister's act of accepting responsibility, while others view it as a necessary consequence for the administrative lapses. The incident has put the spotlight on the state's capability to host international events of such magnitude.
What Happens Next?
As of now, the resignation is an offer, not an acceptance. The final decision rests with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. She can choose to reject the resignation and ask the minister to continue, or she can accept it, leading to a cabinet reshuffle. The coming days will reveal whether this marks the end of Biswas's tenure as Sports Minister or a moment of political recalibration.
The episode highlights the intense scrutiny and high stakes involved in organizing mega-events, especially those featuring icons like Lionel Messi. It also demonstrates how such events can quickly translate into matters of political accountability and governance.
