A massive 70-foot statue of Argentine football icon Lionel Messi in Kolkata, India, is being dismantled less than six months after its unveiling, following safety concerns. Engineers from the West Bengal government deemed the golden-coloured structure unsafe after it was observed swaying in strong winds.
Safety Issues Emerge
The statue, which only vaguely resembled the World Cup-winning footballer, had been a subject of ridicule since its installation last December due to its poor likeness. However, the primary concern shifted to safety when complaints about instability surfaced. Ropes were reportedly used to temporarily secure the structure before the decision to dismantle it was made.
Controversy Surrounding the Statue
The statue was commissioned by a local football club, whose president, Sujit Bose, was later arrested on corruption allegations. The project had drawn criticism not only for its aesthetic quality but also for its cost and the circumstances surrounding its approval. The removal process is expected to be completed in the coming days, with authorities prioritising public safety.
This incident adds to a series of controversies involving public statues in India, where many have faced backlash for poor craftsmanship or political undertones. For now, the Messi statue joins the list of ill-fated tributes that failed to capture the essence of their subjects.
