The Indian Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Maldivian envoy in response to derogatory comments made by multiple leaders of the ruling party in the Indian Ocean archipelago against Indian leadership. Individuals familiar with the matter disclosed that India expressed strong concerns during the meeting.

A day after the suspension of three deputy ministers by the Maldives government for posting derogatory comments on social media, the administration in Male distanced itself from the remarks. The government clarified that the statements did not reflect the views of the administration and took this action in response to the situation.

Under the condition of anonymity, sources revealed that Maldives High Commissioner Ibrahim Shaheeb received summons to the External Affairs Ministry. During the meeting, India conveyed strong concerns regarding comments made by certain Maldivian ministers concerning Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Indian High Commission in Male had previously conveyed these concerns to the Maldivian Foreign Ministry. The development marked a further deterioration in India-Maldives relations following the assumption of power by President Mohamed Muizzu's government, which is perceived to be leaning towards China.

Meanwhile, Nishant Pitti, the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of EaseMyTrip, has declared the suspension of all flight bookings to the Maldives. This decision comes in response to derogatory remarks made by Maldives ministers against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. EaseMyTrip, an online travel solutions provider, takes this step as a measure in light of the recent statements affecting bilateral relations.

"Our company is completely indigenous and crafted in India. In the midst of the controversy surrounding Maldives politicians' comments on PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep, we have determined that we will not entertain any bookings for Maldives. We aspire for Ayodhya and Lakshadweep to evolve into international destinations," Prashant Patti said.

In November, President Muizzu called for the withdrawal of 77 Indian military personnel from the Maldives, rejecting the "India First" policy of his predecessor. Tensions escalated recently when Maldivian leaders, including deputy ministers, criticized posts comparing Lakshadweep to the Maldives after PM Modi's visit.

The government distanced itself, suspended the deputy ministers, and initially suspended Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid from the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Art.

Three deputy ministers criticized Modi's Lakshadweep post, suggesting it aimed to rival the Maldives. Progressive Party leader Zahid Rameez called the idea "delusional," while Shiuna made a derogatory post on X, referring to Modi as a "puppet of Israel." India criticized the remarks, promoting domestic tourism, and some canceled trips to the Maldives amid the controversy.

Tourism is a significant contributor to the Maldives' GDP, with Indian visitors topping the list in 2023, constituting the largest share among 1.8 million tourists. Russia and China followed closely with 209,146 and 187,118 arrivals, respectively.

Image source: Hindustan Times