Kerala mulls multi-agency probe into failed Messi visit

The Kerala government is considering a multi-agency investigation into the previous LDF government's failed attempt to bring Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team to Kochi, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said on August 14. The Hindu reports a Sports Department inquiry flagged alleged financial irregularities, procedural lapses, and possible violations of foreign exchange and money laundering laws.

The inquiry found the sponsor, Reporter Broadcasting Company, claimed to have paid $15 million (₹126 crore) to the Argentina Football Association, but no documentary evidence of the remittance was found. There was no formal agreement between the government and the sponsor, and tender procedures were bypassed. Separately, the Finance Department's Special Investigation Team has expedited a GST evasion probe into the ₹126 crore wire transfer, which triggered a potential service tax liability of ₹22.68 crore.

The sponsor belatedly responded to GST notices in early August, arguing no tax was owed since the event did not take place. Officials said the government may refer findings to the Registrar of Companies, the Serious Fraud Investigation Office, and potentially the Enforcement Directorate or CBI if cognisable offences emerge.