In the aftermath of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Lakshadweep, a social media post by Maldives minister Abdulla Mahzoom Majid has sparked controversy. PM Modi, who went snorkeling during his visit, expressed his enthusiasm for the islands in the Arabian Sea. However, Majid alleges that India is diverting its focus from the Maldives by promoting Lakshadweep as a tourist destination.
According to Majid, India’s emphasis on Lakshadweep reflects a shift away from the Maldives, posing significant challenges for India in competing with the Maldives in beach tourism. This disagreement arises amid strained relations between the two countries following President Mohamed Muizzu’s rise to power in November last year. Muizzu, aligned with the Progressive Alliance, which includes the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and the People’s National Congress (PNC), is perceived as pro-China. In contrast, former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Muizzu’s predecessor, had strong ties with New Delhi, fostering positive bilateral relations during his rule.
Addressing the controversial social media posts, the Maldives government has distanced itself from the derogatory remarks made by its ministers and ruling party leaders against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In an official statement issued on Sunday from Male, the government clarified that these opinions are personal and do not represent the official views of the Maldives government. Emphasizing the importance of exercising freedom of expression in a democratic and responsible manner, the government stated that relevant authorities will not hesitate to take action against those who make derogatory remarks.
Subsequently, the Maldives government has reportedly suspended three ministers for their inappropriate comments on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid the Lakshadweep vs. Maldives dispute. The suspended ministers include Hassan Zihan, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Transport and Civil, Mariyam Shiuna, Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, and Malsha, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, according to local media reports.
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