📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Sanu N
Politics
Kerala to Act on Probe into Messi Visit, Citing Rs 22 Crore Loss
✍️ Asianet Newsable
🗓 19 Aug 2026, 06:36 AM
👁 18
Kerala's chief minister announced that the state will take action based on the probe into Lionel Messi's proposed visit, which reportedly cost the government Rs 22 crore.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the Kerala government will act on the findings of the inquiry into Lionel Messi's planned visit to the state. The probe, initiated after concerns over procedural lapses, concluded that the project resulted in a financial shortfall of about Rs 22 crore.
According to the administration, the loss stemmed from unspent promotional funds and contractual commitments that were not fulfilled. Officials are now reviewing the audit report to determine liability and possible recovery measures.
The chief minister emphasized that transparency and accountability will guide any corrective steps, and that the government will ensure that public resources are safeguarded in future high‑profile events.
No further details on the exact nature of the alleged irregularities were disclosed, but the statement signals a move toward stricter oversight of large‑scale promotional initiatives.
The decision comes as Kerala continues to balance its reputation as a tourist hub with fiscal prudence, especially after the global attention generated by the Messi proposal.
According to the administration, the loss stemmed from unspent promotional funds and contractual commitments that were not fulfilled. Officials are now reviewing the audit report to determine liability and possible recovery measures.
The chief minister emphasized that transparency and accountability will guide any corrective steps, and that the government will ensure that public resources are safeguarded in future high‑profile events.
No further details on the exact nature of the alleged irregularities were disclosed, but the statement signals a move toward stricter oversight of large‑scale promotional initiatives.
The decision comes as Kerala continues to balance its reputation as a tourist hub with fiscal prudence, especially after the global attention generated by the Messi proposal.