In brief
During Lionel Messi's promotional event in Kolkata, fans became angry after his brief appearance was obstructed by officials and he left the pitch after just 20 minutes. The unrest led to fans storming the field, vandalizing property, and demanding an explanation from organizers as the West Bengal government announced an inquiry into the incident.
Angry fans attending Lionel Messi's tour of India ripped up seats and threw items towards the pitch after his appearance at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium.
Thousands of adoring supporters had paid up to 12,000 rupees (£100; $133) to catch a glimpse of the football star, but were left disappointed when he emerged to walk around the pitch, and was obscured by a large group of officials and celebrities.
When the Argentina and Inter Miami forward was whisked away early by security after around 20 minutes, elements of the crowd turned hostile.
West Bengal's chief minister, Mamata Banerjee said she was deeply disturbed and shocked by the events.
Messi is in India for his 'GOAT tour', a series of promotional events in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi.
His tour began with the unveiling of a 70ft statue of himself in Kolkata, which had been assembled over the course of 27 days by a 45-strong crew. It was unveiled virtually due to security reasons, meaning thousands of fans instead travelled to the city's stadium for a chance to see the footballer.
They were chanting, buying jerseys and wearing I love Messi headbands.
Messi initially walked around the stadium waving to fans, but after his appearance was abruptly ended on Saturday, frustrated fans stormed the pitch and vandalised banners and tents, as others hurled plastic chairs and water bottles.
The 2022 World Cup winner - considered one of football's greatest players of all time - had been expected to play a short exhibition game at the stadium, the AFP news agency reports.
As it became apparent Messi's appearance had ended, local media say the scene turned ugly. One fan stated, Only leaders and actors were surrounding Messi ... Why did they call us then ... We have got a ticket for 12 thousand rupees, but we were not even able to see his face.
Banerjee announced an enquiry and apologized to Messi, stating the committee will conduct a detailed enquiry into the incident and recommend measures for the future.
Thousands lined the roads to catch a glimpse of him and fans were able to visit 'Hola Messi' fan zone, celebrating the footballer through various installations.
