The Maldives government took action today by suspending three ministers for posting on social media against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The posts created a controversy, leading some Indians to reconsider their planned trips to the Maldives, known for its numerous luxury resorts spread across more than a hundred islands.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement addressing the disrespectful social media posts towards neighboring India. The government clarified that those in official positions who made such posts are now suspended from their duties. The suspended ministers are Maryam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef, and Mahzoom Majid.
Maldives Government Suspended 3 Ministers
The Maldivian government took action by suspending three ministers, namely Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha, and Hassan Zihan. This decision was made due to their disrespectful comments about India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi after his visit to Lakshadweep. The Atoll Times, a local media outlet, reported on the suspension.
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Maldives Leaders Slam PM Modi’s Lakshadweep Trip
It all started when some ministers and leaders in the Maldives made disrespectful comments about PM Modi after he shared photos and videos from his recent visit to Lakshadweep, including snorkeling scenes that went viral. Social media users began suggesting Lakshadweep as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives.
Later in the day, the Maldivian government distanced itself from these remarks, clarifying that they were personal opinions and not reflective of the government’s views. This response came after opposition leaders criticized the use of “appalling language.”
The government emphasized the importance of exercising freedom of expression in a democratic and responsible manner, avoiding the spread of hatred and negativity that could strain relationships between the Maldives and its international partners.
This statement followed significant backlash within the Maldives, with prominent leaders condemning the remarks against India, the nation’s “closest neighbor.” Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed labeled the comments as “appalling” and urged President Mohamed Muizzu’s government to disassociate itself from such statements.
Former VP Ahmed Adeeb Condemns Racist Comments
Ahmed Adeeb, the former Vice President, strongly criticized the “offensive and racist remarks made by a group of Maldivian politicians.” This statement provides significant reassurance to India amidst ongoing diplomatic tensions with the island nation.
Relations between the two countries soured when Mohamed Muizzu, who promised to reduce the presence of around 75 Indian military personnel and alter the Maldives’s “India first” stance, assumed the presidency of the Indian Ocean nation in November.
In a departure from tradition, Mr. Muizzu opted to visit Turkey first instead of India after his election. Subsequently, he met with PM Modi in the United Arab Emirates during COP28. Both nations have established a core group to address the withdrawal of Indian troops.
Indian personnel are responsible for operating three aircraft gifted for patrolling the maritime territory.
The geographical features of both locations are quite similar, with low-lying islands, reefs, and pristine beaches. The Eight Degree Channel separates Lakshadweep and Maldives.
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Maldives Government Suspended 3 Ministers FAQs
Q.1. Why were the Maldives ministers suspended?
Ans. The ministers were suspended for making disrespectful comments about India and PM Modi on social media.
Q.2. How did the controversy impact tourism in the Maldives?
Ans. Some Indians reconsidered their Maldives trips due to the controversy, affecting the nation known for luxury resorts.
Q.3. What led to the suspension of ministers?
Ans. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs cited disrespectful social media posts against India as the reason for suspending ministers Maryam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef, and Mahzoom Majid.
Q.4. Why did the Maldivian government distance itself from the remarks?
Ans. The government clarified that the remarks were personal opinions, not reflecting its views, emphasizing the importance of responsible freedom of expression.
Q.5. What diplomatic tensions exist between India and the Maldives?
Ans. Tensions arose over President Mohamed Muizzu’s election promises to reduce Indian military presence and a shift from the “India first” stance. Discussions are ongoing regarding the withdrawal of Indian troops.
