Thiruvananthapuram, 31 August (H.S.) :The Kerala government has decided to launch a comprehensive investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the proposed visit of the Argentina football team, led by Lionel Messi, to the state.

The Chief Minister has recommended the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and forwarded the relevant file to the Home Department. A senior official is expected to head the investigation, which will scrutinise every decision taken since the proposal was first mooted.

The probe will examine how Reporter Broadcasting Company was selected as the sponsor and whether procedures were bypassed to favour the private firm. Financial transactions, sources of funds and the circumstances surrounding the proposed transfer of a stadium will also come under scrutiny.

Investigators will examine the basis on which government approvals and orders were issued in connection with the event. Foreign trips reportedly undertaken as part of efforts to bring Messi and the Argentina team to Kerala, agreements signed by the parties and related official records will also be reviewed.

The SIT is expected to be given the authority to inspect government documents and relevant bank transactions.

Meanwhile, no follow-up action has reportedly been taken on an earlier Goods and Services Tax Department report concerning the alleged fraud committed by promising to bring Messi to Kerala. The SIT submitted a report on August 19 flagging the non-payment of ₹22.68 crore in taxes and possible lapses by officials.

Although charge memoranda were issued to four officials, further departmental action is yet to be initiated.

The authorities had also sought explanations regarding ₹206 crore received by sponsor Reporter Broadcasting Company from two financial institutions, excluding loans. One institution has submitted its response, while the other has reportedly failed to provide an explanation.

The SIT has maintained that the transactions require a detailed financial examination. The proposed investigation is expected to cover both the administrative decisions and the flow of funds linked to the abandoned football event.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman