Keralam Government Investigates Messi's Proposed Visit Amid Procedural Concerns

Investigation into Messi's Visit to Keralam

Thiruvananthapuram (Keralam) [India], August 13: The Sports Minister of Keralam, O J Janeesh, announced on Thursday that the state government is looking into the circumstances surrounding the planned visit of football superstar Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team last year. The focus is on potential procedural errors and the ambiguity in the government's interactions with a private event management firm.

Janeesh confirmed that the Sports Department has already submitted its findings to Chief Minister V D Satheesan, who will review the report before making a decision.

“The report from the Sports Department has been handed over to the Chief Minister, who has indicated that a decision will be made after a thorough review,” Janeesh stated.

He emphasized that the matter extends beyond any financial losses the state might have faced, raising questions about the due diligence exercised in selecting the private company involved in the event.

“The core issue is not merely whether the state incurred financial losses. The critical question is whether proper due diligence was followed. How was the private event management company chosen? What led the government to assign them this responsibility?” he questioned.

Janeesh also pointed out the lack of essential documents, including the agreement between the involved parties, in government records.

“Merely stating that an agreement existed is insufficient. Many documents, including the agreement, are missing from government files. It seems the government supported a private agreement without having full clarity on it. Such issues necessitate a comprehensive investigation, which is currently underway,” he added.

The anticipation surrounding Messi's visit had surged after the announcement of Argentina's friendly match against Australia at Kochi's Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium. However, as reported by Olympics.com, the match was later postponed due to delays in obtaining FIFA approval, with indications that it might be rescheduled for a future international window.

Despite this, Messi did visit India as part of his 'GOAT India Tour', making stops in 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 an intermediary in a significant commercial deal involving a private entity.

“From the outset, there has been a lack of clarity. The government had no reason to serve as an intermediary for a major commercial agreement involving a private company,” he stated.

He dismissed claims that the investigation was intended to target specific individuals or settle political scores.

“We are not pursuing anyone out of personal or political motives, as some private channels may imply. This examination 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 what further investigations are necessary. There is no intention of targeting or settling scores with anyone. The inquiry is focused on the irregularities and lack of clarity that arose during the investigation,” he said.