The escalating tensions between Maldives and India following derogatory comments made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Maldivian officials. Maldives MP Ali Azim called for the removal of President Mohamed Muizzu, while Meekail Naseem sought parliamentary questioning of the Foreign Minister, Moosa Zameer, over the contentious remarks. Opposition lawmakers are intensifying their criticisms of President Muizzu ahead of the upcoming general elections.
The political fallout from these comments has triggered concern among Maldivian officials about potential repercussions, especially regarding bilateral ties and the economy. Former Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi criticized the ruling party's shortsightedness in jeopardizing the long-standing relationship with India, referring to India as "our 911 call" and emphasizing an "India first policy."
Moreover, concerns were raised about the economic impact resulting from reports of Indian tourists boycotting the Maldives due to these comments. With Indian tourists constituting a significant portion of foreign arrivals and contributing substantially to the economy, officials fear a severe economic setback if this trend continues. Former Tourism Minister Abdulla Mausoom urged Indians to disregard the comments made by Maldivian ministers and highlighted the country's reliance on tourism, particularly on Indian travellers for income.
Several prominent Maldivian figures, including former President Ibrahim Solih and ex-Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid, condemned the offensive language used against India, describing it as hateful and reprehensible. The comments were also labelled as racist by former Deputy Speaker Eva Abdulla, who acknowledged Indians' rightful anger over the situation.
Amidst this diplomatic row, President Muizzu's government deemed the comments unacceptable, and Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer reiterated their commitment to fostering constructive dialogue with neighbouring countries. As a response to the situation, three ministers were suspended by the government.
The controversy erupted following Prime Minister Modi's promotional posts about tourism in Lakshadweep, leading to a #BoycottMaldives trend on social media. India's response to the issue has been measured, with New Delhi summoning the Maldives envoy after several days of the dispute. However, neither the Indian Prime Minister nor Foreign Minister S Jaishankar had made public statements regarding the matter. Lakshadweep Administrator Praful Patel expressed concerns about India's dignity being challenged but dismissed talks of issuing a public apology.
The strained relations between India and the Maldives have been highlighted, particularly since the election of President Muizzu, perceived as a leader favouring China. During his state visit to China, Muizzu praised Beijing as a "valued ally," drawing attention to the dynamic between the Maldives and China, although the Chinese government has not formally responded. State-run Global Times referred to a "friendly and cooperative relationship" with the Maldives in this context.
Overall, the diplomatic strain between India and the Maldives is due to derogatory comments against PM Modi, triggering concerns about bilateral ties, the economy, and the potential repercussions on tourism and foreign relations.
