SIT fast-tracks GST evasion probe into Messi, Argentina team’s 2025 Kerala visit
The Kerala Finance Department is investigating a private firm for alleged GST evasion related to a failed 2025 exhibition match featuring Lionel Messi. The probe examines why initial tax intelligence reports regarding a ₹126 crore transfer were ignored.
Why it matters
The investigation touches on potential corruption and financial mismanagement involving high-profile international sports events and government oversight.
The Kerala Finance Department’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) has expedited its enquiry into the suspected Goods and Services Tax (GST) evasion on foreign remittances made by a private firm ostensibly to secure the presence of the 2022 FIFA World Cup-winning Argentine football team and its iconic captain Lionel Messi for an exhibition match in Kochi in 2025.
Officials said the investigation will likely lay the legal groundwork for a sweeping anti-corruption enquiry into the high-profile plan that turned into a fiasco amid a storm of hype and despite the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government’s active backing.
According to government officials privy to the enquiry ordered by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan , the SIT, headed by GST Deputy Commissioner C Brijesh, is poised to record statements from the tax enforcers who initially flagged suspected levy dodging in 2025.
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