Controversial Messi deal: ED, CBI may probe alleged financial irregularities

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Reports suggest that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have initiated steps to investigate the financial transactions linked to efforts by the previous LDF government to bring international football star Lionel Messi to Kerala.

The ED may officially seek a report available with the state government. The agency is also gathering details of the state's investigation into the matter. While issues related to the source of money sent abroad fall under the jurisdiction of the Income Tax Department, the ED is examining that aspect as well. The matter could later be referred to the CBI.

The Kerala government is yet to take a decision on a report submitted by the Sports Department Secretary, which reportedly found major irregularities in the Messi project.

The government has asked the Law and Finance Secretaries to submit recommendations on what kind of investigation should be conducted. The reported intervention by central agencies comes amid this process.

The investigation is reportedly focused on former Sports Minister Abdurahiman. Central agencies are examining whether provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) were violated in connection with the transfer of crores of rupees abroad.

It has been alleged that the former Sports Minister misused his official position and misled the government to facilitate the project. He is also accused of bypassing procedures to include the project's main sponsor, Reporter Broadcasting Company (RBC), extending undue favours to the company and misleading both the central and state governments. According to a report submitted by the Sports Department Secretary to the Chief Minister, the government does not have any files related to these matters.