Kolkata-based sports promoter Satadru Dutta, the main organiser of Lionel Messi’s visit to the city, was granted bail on Monday by Bidhannagar district court. He had been in judicial custody since late December after his bail plea was earlier rejected by the same court. ADVERTISEMENTThe development comes weeks after prosecutors had strongly opposed his release, describing him as a “very influential” individual who could flee if granted bail. He could flee if granted bail,” prosecution lawyer Bivas Chatterjee had told the court. Following his arrest the same evening on charges of mismanagement, Dutta remained in custody until the court’s order granting bail on Monday.

Source: The Telegraph January 19, 2026 14:21 UTC