Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Thursday, 13 August 2025, confirmed that the controversial agreement between the state and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) — linked to Lionel Messi's proposed visit to Kerala in 2025 — is under a detailed investigation, with preliminary findings pointing to 'grave errors' and possible GST violations. The Chief Minister said the probe was already underway and that further action would be determined by its outcome.

What the Probe Has Found So Far

According to Satheesan, the preliminary report has flagged that the AFA agreement was handed over to a private company without inviting an Expression of Interest (EoI) — a standard procurement requirement. Critically, the state government itself appears to have been kept out of the loop during the process.

The preliminary findings also revealed that the GST issue was detected during the tenure of the previous government but was subsequently shelved. Satheesan indicated that the Finance Department would initiate steps to recover any exchequer losses if GST violations are confirmed.

'We are seriously looking into it,' Satheesan said, adding that the government would examine whether the state's interests had been adequately protected and fix responsibility wherever necessary.

The Meta Controversy: CM's Clarification

Separately, Satheesan addressed allegations that he had sought the removal of social media posts critical of him. He categorically denied the charge, stating his only communication with Meta pertained to the official Instagram account of the Chief Minister's Office.

'The Left people who got my interview to a leading television channel removed by writing to Meta are now alleging that I had made such a request. This is totally baseless,' he said.

Satheesan added that he was willing to write to Meta requesting restoration of any posts about him that had been taken down, and expressed support for media organisations pursuing the matter with the company.

Key Cabinet Decisions

The Kerala Cabinet, meeting on Thursday, approved ₹2 lakh each for families and victims of the 2024 Wayanad disaster, with a total outlay of ₹5 crore. Guidelines for distribution of the Onam bonus to employees of public sector undertakings for 2025-26 were also cleared.

The Cabinet further decided to oppose the Centre's proposed Mines and Minerals Development Bill, terming it an encroachment on the state's constitutional domain. Satheesan said land-related matters have traditionally been within the state's sphere, and the legislation struck at the principles of federalism. Kerala intends to formally communicate its opposition to the Centre and, if the Bill becomes law, will seek legal recourse.

Vizhinjam Port and Fishermen SOP

On the infrastructure front, Satheesan announced that commercial movement of EXIM cargo through Vizhinjam port would commence on 18 August, marking a significant shift from its current transshipment-only operations. An SOP for handling cases of fishermen reported missing at sea is also expected to be announced shortly, the Chief Minister said.