Investigation into Alleged Financial Misconduct Linked to Messi's Visit to Kerala

Kerala's Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has confirmed that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has collected vital evidence during raids related to alleged financial misconduct tied to Lionel Messi's anticipated visit to the state. The investigation, initiated by a request from the Sports Ministry, aims to uncover potential fraud linked to the previous government's efforts to host the football star. Chennithala emphasized that the probe should not be seen as an infringement on press freedom, asserting that the SIT operates independently and legally. He reaffirmed the commitment to uphold media rights while ensuring that any unlawful actions by police would be addressed.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 17, 2026, 13:15 IST

Evidence Collected in Investigation

On Thursday, Ramesh Chennithala, the Home Minister of Kerala, announced that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has successfully gathered crucial evidence during their searches at the offices of a news channel and the residences of its owners. This investigation is focused on alleged financial irregularities associated with the anticipated visit of Lionel Messi and the Argentine football team to the state.

Legally Required Investigation

Chennithala explained that the SIT is conducting a legally mandated investigation into the suspected fraud related to Messi's proposed visit. This inquiry was initiated following a request from the Sports Ministry, which was subsequently forwarded to the Home Department by the Chief Minister. The raid on the news channel was executed under a legitimate search warrant.

"The SIT is adhering to legal protocols in this investigation. It pertains to what is claimed to be the largest fraud perpetrated during the previous administration regarding the effort to bring Messi to Kerala," he stated.

Clarification on Press Freedom

Chennithala emphasized that the SIT's investigation should not be misconstrued as an infringement on press freedom. He assured that neither he nor the Chief Minister has interfered with the investigation process. The SIT is independently determining the direction of the inquiry, and he reiterated the commitment of the Congress and UDF to uphold press freedom and the rights of journalists.

"This is not an attack on press freedom. Such interpretations are misleading. The SIT is investigating a separate case, and this does not involve restricting press freedom. We have a long-standing commitment to the rights of journalists," Chennithala remarked.

Legality of the Raid

Chennithala confirmed that the police raid was conducted in accordance with the law and that the investigation will continue to follow legal procedures. He stated that any unlawful actions would be scrutinized, denying any targeting of media organizations, and noted that the proceedings were documented and observed.

"The Kerala Police have acted lawfully. If any illegal actions have occurred, I will investigate. However, we cannot halt an investigation. It will proceed as per the law. We are not targeting any media organization. The entire process was conducted legally, and I personally reviewed the situation. The proceedings were recorded, and observers were present during the raid," he added.

Reaffirmation of Media Freedom

Chennithala reiterated his dedication to media freedom, stating that any police actions against journalists must comply with legal standards. He asserted that any misconduct or illegal actions by the police would not be tolerated.

"We have consistently supported media freedom over the past decade. Even when I was not physically present, I remained accessible via phone. The raid was conducted legally, regardless of prior notifications. If the police have made any errors regarding the media, we will not condone it. No actions against media freedom or journalists outside the law will be accepted," Chennithala concluded.