Bibhash Lodh, BS News Agency: Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly spoke over the phone with West Bengal's new Sports Minister, Nisith Pramanik. Immediately upon assuming charge as Bengal's new Sports Minister, he had issued a strong statement, declaring that the file regarding the "Messi fiasco" at the Yuba Bharati Stadium would be reopened. After taking up his ministerial duties, Nisith Pramanik outlined a series of developmental initiatives for the state's sports sector. West Bengal's new Minister for Sports and Youth Welfare was present during superstar Lionel Messi's visit to Kolkata in December of last year (2025). Messi was accompanied by teammates such as Suarez and De Paul. The entire world witnessed the mismanagement—including the suffering endured by common people despite holding valid tickets, as well as the vandalism—that marred the event held at the Salt Lake Yuba Bharati Stadium.
Meanwhile, East Bengal Club paid a courtesy visit to the Honorable Minister for Sports and Youth Welfare, Shri Nisith Pramanik, to convey their best wishes. Representing the "Red and Gold" club were Debabrata Sarkar, Subir Ganguly, and the club's Football Secretary, Saikat Ganguly.