India, Dec. 22 -- Former India football captain Bhaichung Bhutia on Sunday termed the chaos during Lionel Messi's public event at the Salt Lake Stadium as undesirable and said sports events must be given "priority" over political and bureaucratic formalities. Speaking after a running event in Kolkata, Bhutia said fans turn up to watch sport and players, not political speeches or ceremonial delays.

"I think when there is a sports event, sports should get priority," he said. Criticising the practice of delaying events for VIP appearances, Bhutia said, "Many times across India we see sporting events getting delayed because of political speeches, chief guest handshakes and all that. That is not necessary. Fans and players are coming to watch...