Facebook Post Mocking Argentina, FIFA Triggers Controversy in Kerala
13 July 2026 9:26 AM IST13 July 2026 9:26 AM IST
The Kerala Police page featured a picture of Argentina superstar Lionel Messi and the match referee alongside a graphic of Kerala’s map. The image resembled online trolls who claimed Argentina was getting illegal help from the referee
A post on the official Facebook page of the Kerala Police mocking Argentina and FIFA has sparked a major controversy. (Image credit: Facebook)
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A post on the official Facebook page of the Kerala Police mocking Argentina and FIFA has sparked a major controversy. Rashid Ahamed, a native of Malappuram, filed a complaint claiming the post had hurt the sentiments of sports lovers. The complaint was submitted to Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, and State Police Chief Ravada Chandrasekhar. Rashid alleged that certain officials had misused the department’s page to promote personal interests and incite fan clashes during the World Cup.
Rashid said the post was made in a way that insulted the spirit of football, a sport with millions of fans around the globe who have deep sentiments attached to it. He called for a detailed probe into the incident and strict disciplinary action against the officials behind the post, adding that they should be hauled up for criticising and misusing official machinery for personal interests.
The Kerala Police page featured a picture of Argentina superstar Lionel Messi and the match referee alongside a graphic of Kerala’s map. The image resembled online trolls who claimed Argentina was getting illegal help from the referee. The tagline read “You have us” along with the message “Call 112 for emergency help.”
Soon after the post was shared, it triggered severe criticism on social media. Argentina fans were up in arms against it, alleging that it was a misuse of the page of an official law enforcement agency to mock a particular team and FIFA. In light of the massive backlash, the post was withdrawn from the official Facebook page of the Kerala Police.
From Kasargod to Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam to Idukki, towns and villages buzzed with a festive vibe during the tournament. Flags, festoons, posters, and massive cutouts of football icons were everywhere. Kerala is home to the largest number of Argentinian fans, and with Brazil, Portugal, and Germany bowing out early, their supporters seemed to unite in teasing Argentina’s faithful on social media.
At times, these rivalries even spilled onto the streets. Now, many fans of Brazil and Portugal are placing their hopes on France, Spain, and England.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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