Thiruvananthapuram, 30 August (H.S.):Demands for a detailed probe into the International Sports Summit Kerala (ISSK), organised by the previous Left Democratic Front government in 2024, are gaining momentum following allegations that promised investments and government assistance never materialised.

The controversy intensified after evidence reportedly indicated that the government’s claim of attracting investment commitments worth ₹5,025 crore was not supported by firm agreements. Critics allege that the summit was largely a publicity exercise and that the government failed to follow up on projects showcased at the event.

The Sports Department organised the summit using ₹3.62 crore from government funds. The event had earlier attracted criticism over alleged extravagant expenditure.

Relaxed Business Solutions presented a ₹50-crore football training proposal involving foreign coaches and programmes across Kerala. Although departmental records indicated that the first phase had been launched, the company said it did not receive any investment. It alleged that the government later abandoned the project without further communication.

The Kochi-based Sports Management and Research Institute proposed a College Sports League at the summit. A similar programme is now being implemented by the Sports and Higher Education departments. Institute head Sijin B.T. alleged that the government did not hold further discussions with the organisation and subsequently introduced the concept independently.

The family of former international tennis player Hadin Bava proposed establishing a tennis complex near Valanchery in Malappuram. The family offered to develop the facility if the government acquired and provided 18 acres. Although the department listed it as a ₹100-crore investment proposal, the family said the promised assistance was not extended.

The All Kerala E-sports Association also alleged that there was no follow-up after the summit. The association spent ₹20 lakh conducting demonstrations at the event after being invited by then Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman.

The fresh allegations have strengthened demands for an investigation into the summit’s investment claims, expenditure and subsequent handling of the proposals.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman