Maldives Minister Shiuna's Comments on PM Modi Stir Controversy, Sparking Concern in India | 10 Key Points
The government led by Maldives President Mohammad Muizzu has distanced itself from the comments made by its minister.
India has expressed concern over recent "derogatory" remarks made by Maldives Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Mariyam Shiuna, against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sources reveal that the Indian High Commissioner in Male has addressed the issue with the Maldivian government. This development occurred as the government led by Maldives President Mohammad Muizzu distanced itself from the minister's remarks.
In response to the situation, the Maldivian government stated, "The government believes that freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, avoiding the spread of hatred, negativity, and hindrance to close relationships between the Maldives and international partners."
The statement further added, "The government's relevant authorities will not hesitate to take action against those who make such derogatory remarks."
India-Maldives Dispute: Key Highlights
1. Tensions escalated between India and the Maldives when a minister from the island nation made derogatory comments about PM Modi following his recent visit to the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.
2. Maldives Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment Mariyam Shiuna used terms like 'clown' and 'puppet' in reference to the Prime Minister of India.
3. The offensive remarks triggered widespread outrage in India, leading to calls for boycotting travel to the Maldives due to its perceived anti-India stance.
4. Amidst the controversy, former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed criticized the comments made by the Maldivian minister and emphasized India's role as a "key ally" for the security and prosperity of the archipelago nation.
5. Expressing dismay, Nasheed stated, "What appalling language by Maldives Government official Mariyam Shiuna towards the leader of a key ally, that is instrumental for the Maldives’ security and prosperity."
6. Nasheed urged the Mohamed Muizzu government to distance itself from the comments and provide clear assurance to India that they do not reflect government policy.
7. The newly-elected government of Mohammad Muizzu disassociated itself from the minister's remarks, emphasizing that the relevant authorities would take action against those making derogatory statements.
8. India expressed concerns about the remarks directed at its Prime Minister, and diplomatic channels are engaged in conveying India's position to Maldivian officials.
9. The strained relations between the two nations coincide with Mohammad Muizzu's election campaign, which carried an anti-India stance, contributing to deteriorating ties since his assumption of the presidency.
10. The new Maldivian government is aligning itself closely with the Arab world, as evidenced by Mohammad Muizzu's initial international trip to Turkey—a nation known for its anti-India views.
India-Maldives Dispute: Responses from Maldivian Politicians
Mariyam Shiuna's comments faced criticism within the domestic political circles of the Maldives, with former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih denouncing the "hateful" language directed towards India. Solih expressed his condemnation of such language on social media, emphasizing that India has consistently been a good friend to the Maldives. He urged against allowing such insensitive remarks to adversely affect the longstanding friendship between the two nations, stating, "...we must not allow such callous remarks to negatively impact the age-old friendship between our two countries."
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