What promised to be an electrifying international football friendly, featuring the legendary Lionel Messi and his World Champion Argentina team in Kerala, has now been abruptly called off. This cancellation has ignited a fierce political debate, extending far beyond the pitch and into the realm of suspected financial irregularities.
The Opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) has vehemently claimed that the much-anticipated event was merely a “dubious financial deal” in disguise, allegedly orchestrated to seize control of the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kaloor, Kochi, the intended venue for the match.
MP Hibi Eden Alleges ‘Shady Business Deal’
On Monday, Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden took a strong stand, asserting that the football match was being used as a facade for a “shady business deal.” He publicly demanded immediate clarification from the Kerala government regarding its involvement and whether the Chief Minister and the Sports Minister were aware of these alleged arrangements. Eden emphasized that the entire fiasco has cast a dark shadow of uncertainty over the future of Kerala’s premier international stadium, urging for transparency on all follow-up actions.
Eight Crucial Questions Raised
Earlier in the day, MP Eden addressed a detailed letter to the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) chairman, K. Chandran Pillai, posing eight critical questions. Among his key inquiries, he sought a copy of any agreement between GCDA and private sponsors concerning the stadium’s supposed renovation. He also pressed for answers on:
- The precise role of the Sports Kerala Foundation in the renovation project and if a public clarification would be issued.
- The exact timeline and scope of the renovation work, and how these improvements would benefit future sports events and programs at the stadium.
- Whether all environmental regulations were strictly adhered to during the tree-cutting phase for the renovation.
- If an alternative emergency plan exists in case FIFA accreditation is not secured within the anticipated timeframe.
- Assurance that the stadium would remain available for Indian Super League (ISL) matches scheduled for December.
- The extent of the Kerala Football Association’s involvement in the renovation activities.
- Whether the sponsor retains any rights or claims over the stadium following the cancellation of the match.
Adding to the chorus of accusations, District Congress Committee president Muhammed Shiyas echoed the UDF’s concerns, alleging a “deliberate attempt” to unlawfully take over the international stadium. He called for Mr. Pillai’s resignation, accusing him of transferring control of the stadium to a private entity without a proper, formal agreement. Shiyas warned that this growing controversy could severely jeopardize the stadium’s prospects, potentially leading to the loss of future international sporting events.