Former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has filed a defamation lawsuit seeking Rs 50 crore in damages against Uttam Saha, the president of the Argentina Fan Club in Kolkata. The legal action comes amid growing controversy surrounding Lionel Messi’s much-discussed visit to the city.
According to sources, the complaint has been lodged at Lalbazar, Kolkata’s police headquarters. Ganguly has alleged that false and baseless statements made by Saha have caused serious damage to his reputation.
Allegations linked Ganguly to Messi’s stadium visit
The controversy began after Uttam Saha publicly claimed that Sourav Ganguly played a key role in Lionel Messi’s visit to Salt Lake Stadium. Saha alleged that Ganguly acted as a “middleman” between the event organisers and the Argentine football icon.
Ganguly strongly denied these claims. In his complaint, he stated that the allegations were made without any factual evidence and were circulated irresponsibly in public forums.
“Serious allegations are being made publicly without any factual basis,” Ganguly said in his statement, as quoted by India Today.
Legal notice sent, retraction demanded
Following the remarks, Ganguly’s legal team issued a notice to Uttam Saha, demanding a public retraction and compensation for the reputational harm caused. When no satisfactory response was received, the former India captain decided to initiate formal legal proceedings.
The lawsuit claims that the accusations have damaged Ganguly’s personal credibility and professional standing, built over decades as a cricketer, administrator, and public figure.
Ganguly’s presence at stadium explained
While Sourav Ganguly was present at Salt Lake Stadium on the day of Messi’s visit, sources clarified that he was seated in a different section of the venue. As chaos broke out during the event due to overcrowding and mismanagement, Ganguly reportedly left the stadium early.
Eyewitnesses said the former cricketer appeared visibly disappointed by the disorder and had no involvement in the planning or execution of the event.
Messi reflects on his India experience
Despite the controversy, Lionel Messi spoke warmly about his India visit during an address in New Delhi. The Argentine superstar thanked fans for the overwhelming love he received.
“I just want to thank everyone for the love and affection during these days in India. It was truly a beautiful experience,” Messi said.
He added that although the visit was short, it left a deep impression on him and his team. “It was a crazy experience. We carry all this love with us, and we will definitely return to India one day,” Messi said.
Case adds legal twist to ongoing controversy
With Ganguly’s defamation suit now underway, the Messi Kolkata visit saga has taken a serious legal turn. Authorities are expected to examine the claims carefully as the case progresses.
