Keralam Government Investigates Messi's Proposed Visit Amid Procedural Concerns
Investigation into Messi's Visit
On Thursday, O J Janeesh, the Sports Minister of Keralam, announced that the state government is looking into the circumstances surrounding last year's planned visit of football superstar Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team. The inquiry is particularly focused on alleged procedural errors and the ambiguity in the government's interactions with a private event management firm. Janeesh confirmed that the Sports Department has submitted its findings to Chief Minister V D Satheesan, who will review the report before making a decision.
Investigation Centers on Due Diligence and Missing Documentation
Janeesh emphasized that the investigation extends beyond potential financial losses for the state government. He raised concerns regarding the due diligence exercised in selecting the private company for the event. "The core issue is not merely whether the state faced financial setbacks. It revolves around the due diligence process. What criteria were used to select the private event management company? How was the responsibility assigned to them?" he questioned.
He also pointed out the lack of essential documents, including the agreement between the involved parties, from government records. "Merely stating that an agreement existed is insufficient. Key documents, including the agreement, are missing from government files. It seems the government supported a private agreement without full clarity. Such issues necessitate thorough investigation, which is currently underway," he stated.
The excitement surrounding Messi's visit surged after the announcement of Argentina's friendly match against Australia at Kochi's Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium. However, according to Olympics.com, the match was postponed due to delays in obtaining FIFA approval, with indications that it might be rescheduled for a future international window. Messi later visited India as part of his 'GOAT India Tour,' traveling to cities like Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, but Keralam was not included in his itinerary.
Janeesh remarked that the government had no obligation to act as a mediator in a significant commercial agreement involving a private entity. "There has been a lack of clarity from the outset. The government had no reason to intervene in a major commercial deal involving a private company," he added.
No Political Motives Behind the Inquiry: Minister
He dismissed claims that the investigation was intended to target specific individuals or settle political disputes. "We are not pursuing anyone out of personal or political vendetta, as suggested by some private channels. The inquiry is based on the complaints received," Janeesh clarified.
He concluded by stating that the government would determine the next steps after reviewing the report. "The government will assess the situation and decide on any further investigations needed. There is no intention to target or settle scores with anyone. The inquiry is focused on the irregularities and lack of clarity that arose during the examination of the circumstances surrounding Messi's proposed visit to Kerala," he said.