Inquiry Concludes on Messi's Visit: GST Fraud Investigation Launched

Inquiry into Messi's Proposed Visit Concludes

On Tuesday, Chief Minister VD Satheesan announced that the investigation into the controversy surrounding Lionel Messi's anticipated visit to Keralam has been finalized. The state government plans to take action based on the findings, which indicate that the alleged irregularities have resulted in a loss exceeding Rs 22 crore to the state's finances. Satheesan stated that the Sports Department has completed its review, and the recommendations will be forwarded to the relevant department.

He further mentioned that the GST Department has established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the alleged GST fraud associated with this issue.

"The inquiry has concluded, and a decision will be made shortly based on the complaint from the Sports Department Secretary. Recommendations regarding the necessary actions will be sent to the appropriate department," Satheesan explained. He added, "The GST Department has formed a Special Investigation Team to look into the alleged GST fraud. This irregularity was not identified by our government; it was previously detected by the former LDF government, which issued a notice. The freezing of the proceedings will also be scrutinized. The government has incurred a loss of over Rs 22 crore in this case," he noted.

Context of the Controversy

The controversy stems from the planned visit of the Argentina men's football team, including Messi, to Keralam for a friendly match, which was postponed due to delays in securing FIFA approval from sponsors. According to Olympics.com, the Argentina team was set to face Australia at Kochi's Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium during an international window, but the match did not take place.

Last week, Satheesan raised concerns about how a private company was allowed to enter into an agreement with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) for the proposed tour. He questioned, "What process was followed to permit a private company to engage with the Argentine Football Association? Was an Expression of Interest sought? Were the company's market value, financial capacity, or funding sources assessed? These issues require thorough examination," he stated.

Messi subsequently visited India as part of the 'GOAT India Tour', making stops in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, but did not include Kerala in his itinerary.

Satheesan previously indicated that the former LDF government could not evade responsibility for the controversy. He remarked, "This matter is surrounded by significant controversy. I have received a report from the Sports Department, which is under serious review. The report contains serious allegations, and the investigation findings are now with the government. We cannot simply ignore this issue," he asserted.

On Tuesday, Satheesan reiterated that the government would take action following the inquiry's completion, and the GST investigation would focus on the alleged irregularities and the subsequent freezing of proceedings.