Published Oct 04, 2026 | 12:39 PM ⚊ Updated Oct 04, 2026 | 1:00 PM
The Special Investigation Team probing the case has already recorded detailed statements from both Abdurahiman and Ramesh.
Former sports minister V. Abdurahiman and his then private secretary G.R. Ramesh are likely to be named as accused in the alleged financial irregularities case linked to the proposed Keralam visit of legendary footballer Lionel Messi and the Argentina national football team.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case has already recorded detailed statements from both Abdurahiman and Ramesh.
The investigators are examining the role of the Sports Department in facilitating fund collection by a private sponsor under the purported government sponsorship arrangement.
The SIT is also looking into how the Reporter Broadcasting Company secured the contract to bring the Argentina team to Keralam, the interventions made by the Sports Ministry, the role of a schoolteacher who served as an official liaison in departmental communications, and the decision to finalise the sponsor before a formal government sanction or order was issued.
Investigators have gathered documentary evidence relating to the department’s interventions and are examining whether the decision to appoint and promote the private sponsor before obtaining government approval amounted to more than a procedural lapse.
According to preliminary findings, the active involvement of the Sports Ministry lent the private venture official credibility, enabling the sponsor to mobilise substantial funds from public and commercial entities.
Departmental records recovered by the SIT are also being examined for indications of coordination among officials at different administrative levels.
If charges are formally framed against Abdurahiman, legal experts said provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act could be invoked, along with relevant penal provisions.
South First reached out to Abdurahiman for his response to the developments. The former minister said he is unaware of the proceedings in the case.
(Edited by Fayisa CA)
