Kerala Minister Dismisses Allegations Over Stadium Renovation

Kochi, Oct 28 (PTI) Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman on Tuesday clarified that the selection process for the sponsor tasked with renovating the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in time for Argentina's impending football match was conducted transparently according to government guidelines. The minister's comments came shortly after Congress MP Hibi Eden leveled accusations of "shady dealings" at the Kerala government regarding the stadium's refurbishment process.

Minister Abdurahiman explained that the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) had already provided clarifications on every aspect of the renovation. He also mentioned that a technical officer from the Argentina team had reviewed the stadium's conditions. "Ideally, the stadium should have been handed over at least 20 days prior to the match," he stated.

The minister noted that inspections revealed inadequate fire safety measures at the stadium. Quick efforts were in place to remedy both safety and security concerns to meet the deadline. "As you can see, a significant number of workers are laboring at the venue to ensure quick completion. Once the tasks are finalized, we can request FIFA's approval and host the match," he added.

When asked about the sponsor selection process for the renovation, the minister reiterated that it was handled through a "transparent process" supported by a government order.

The GCDA, which owns the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, partnered with the Sports Kerala Foundation, under the state's sports department, for the renovation in light of the Argentine team's scheduled visit. The Sports Kerala Foundation subsequently appointed a private company to execute the refurbishment.

On the other hand, Congress MLA Uma Thomas alleged that the stadium had been transferred to a private entity without formal agreements. She further claimed exclusion from GCDA meetings and raised concerns for public safety, particularly considering her severe accident at the stadium last December during an event. According to her, the GCDA's response to her accident was merely an "eyewash".

The GCDA had previously stated that all renovation activities were conducted by the Sports Kerala Foundation following consultations involving the state government, sports department, and the chief minister.

Despite earlier announcements by the private sponsoring company and the Kerala Sports Department indicating a major international match featuring Lionel Messi and the Argentina team next month, it was confirmed that there would be no match during FIFA's November window.