Kolkata, June 18 -- West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Thursday launched a sharp attack over the controversy surrounding football icon Lionel Messi's GOAT India Tour-Kolkata edition, alleging large-scale mismanagement, financial irregularities and damage to Bengal's image, while stating that an inquiry has been initiated into the matter.

Speaking to reporters here, Ghosh said the incident involving Messi and the manner in which the event was handled had led to public anger and embarrassment for the state.

"The incident that happened regarding Messi and the way he was treated... The way crores of rupees were collected from the people, but people did not get a chance to see Messi. Bengal was defamed a lot. So, an inquiry is going on for ...