Congress Questions GCDA Over Kaloor Stadium Renovation Ahead of Cancelled Messi Match

The controversy surrounding the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kaloor has intensified, with the Congress party on Monday accusing the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) of engaging in opaque agreements during the renovation project originally intended for a now-cancelled international friendly featuring Argentina's football team. The allegations come in the wake of the Argentine Football Association's confirmation that the match, hyped as a Lionel Messi visit to Kerala, will not proceed next month, leaving the extensive upgrades under scrutiny for potential irregularities.

Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden, a vocal critic, formally questioned the GCDA's transparency in a letter to its chairperson, demanding full disclosure of the contract with sponsor Anto Augustine and public access to tender documents for the renovation works. Eden highlighted concerns over the Sports Kerala Foundation's involvement, asserting that the entity lacks the requisite technical expertise for such a large-scale infrastructure project. He further alleged procedural lapses, including the felling of trees and construction activities that contravene established norms, raising fears of financial mismanagement.

Eden also expressed alarm over the stadium's long-term viability, noting that rental income from the Kerala Blasters—now reportedly relocating—constitutes the primary revenue stream for maintenance. "Without this, the future of Kerala's premier international football venue hangs in the balance," he stated, urging accountability to safeguard public assets.

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In response, GCDA officials firmly denied any impropriety, clarifying that renovation efforts were launched following a semi-official request from Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman on September 19, followed by directives from the sports and youth affairs director to prepare the facility for the anticipated match between November 10 and 18. The authority emphasized handing over the stadium to the Sports Kerala Foundation for necessary preparations and affirmed that works would conclude within the stipulated timeframe, positioning the venue for upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) matches in Kochi scheduled for December.

Adding to the discourse, Anto Augustine, managing director of Reporter Broadcasting Company and the project's sponsor, addressed the media to dispel politicization of the initiative. He assured that renovations are advancing on schedule and will be completed by the November 30 deadline, with handover to GCDA assured. Augustine underscored the project's altruistic intent: elevating the stadium to FIFA-compliant standards to benefit Kerala, rather than pursuing profit. "Every phase has been executed with approvals from GCDA and Sports Kerala Foundation, adhering strictly to international benchmarks," he affirmed, anticipating imminent FIFA endorsement.

The episode underscores broader tensions in Kerala's sports infrastructure management, where high-profile events like the prospective Argentina clash promised economic boosts but faltered, amplifying calls for rigorous oversight. As political accusations mount, stakeholders await detailed revelations on contracts and expenditures to clarify the project's legitimacy and ensure the stadium's readiness for future events. The GCDA's refutations aim to restore confidence, yet demands for transparency persist amid the unresolved 'Messi affair.'

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