West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accepted the resignation of Aroop Biswas from his post as the state’s Sports and Youth Welfare Minister. The decision comes in the wake of controversy surrounding the organisation and crowd management of the recent Lionel Messi-related event at Salt Lake Stadium.
Aroop Biswas submitted his resignation stating that he wanted to ensure an impartial and transparent investigation into the incident. He said stepping aside from the sports portfolio would help the inquiry proceed without any influence or conflict of interest.
While accepting his resignation from the Sports and Youth Welfare Department, the Chief Minister has decided to take direct charge of the department herself for the time being. Biswas, however, will continue to remain a member of the state cabinet and will retain his other portfolio, including the Power Department.
The state government has already initiated a probe into the chaos at the high-profile football event, with a committee and a Special Investigation Team formed to examine lapses in planning, security, and crowd control. The incident had triggered widespread criticism and political reactions across the state.
Officials said further decisions regarding the sports department and accountability will be taken after the investigation report is submitted.