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Be it Kolkata, Bengaluru, or Rourkela, the common factor in these high-profile sporting events is clear: overcrowding, lack of management, and fan safety oversights. As India dreams of hosting the 2036 Olympics, these failures serve as urgent lessons. 2 / 12

Fans thronged Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata to see Lionel Messi. Thousands arrived, many traveling long distances or sacrificing personal plans, including a newlywed couple who postponed their honeymoon to catch the football legend in person.

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Messi attempted a stadium lap, but heavy security cordons and a large entourage made it nearly impossible for most fans to get a clear view. Frustration started to simmer as excitement turned into disappointment.

Supporters shouted “scam” and “fraud,” throwing bottles ont

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