Thiruvananthapuram, 14 August (H.S.):The BJP in Kerala on Friday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into alleged procedural and financial irregularities surrounding the previous LDF government’s plan to bring football legend Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team to the State.
Addressing a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, senior BJP leader S. Suresh called on Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan to transfer the investigation to the Central agency, arguing that the allegations had international ramifications.
Suresh claimed the proposed visit involved agreements and transactions connected to Argentina, foreign embassies and other international entities. He alleged that crores of rupees had been misappropriated by individuals who used the name and authority of the Kerala government.
“This is a fraud linked to an international agreement involving Argentina and other countries. It has connections with embassies and international agencies. Crores of rupees were allegedly swindled by misusing the State government’s name,” he said.
The BJP leader alleged that former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the CPI(M) had a role in the suspected irregularities. He said the scope and seriousness of the accusations made an investigation by a Central agency necessary.
Suresh also questioned whether the UDF government would pursue the case impartially or reach an understanding with the previous LDF administration and Vijayan to settle the controversy.
According to him, information suggesting possible Goods and Services Tax evasion in connection with the proposed event had also surfaced. He demanded that the authorities register a criminal case, identify those responsible and make arrests based on the evidence collected.
The previous LDF government’s proposal to host Messi and the Argentine team had generated considerable public attention in Kerala, where football enjoys an extensive following. However, questions were subsequently raised about the proposed event’s financing, contractual arrangements and compliance with government procedures.
The BJP said only an independent CBI investigation could establish the full extent of the alleged irregularities and determine the responsibility of officials, political leaders and private parties associated with the plan.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman