Tensions simmered between India and the Maldives following controversial remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi made by a Maldivian minister. The flashpoint arose after Mariyam Shiuna, Maldives deputy minister for Youth Empowerment, took to social media to criticise Modis recent visit to Lakshadweep, an Indian union territory near the Maldives. In a now-deleted tweet, Shiuna used derogatory language against the Indian leader, igniting ire in India.Former Maldives Prez condemns Shiunas remarksFormer Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed quickly condemned Shiunas comments, labelling them appalling and highlighting Indias critical role as a key ally for the Maldives security and prosperity. In a social media post, Nasheed urged current President Mohamed Muizzu and his government to publicly distance themselves from these remarks and provide India with reassurances that they do not reflect official policy.What appalling language by Maldives Government official @shiuna_m towards the leader of a key ally, that is instrumental for Maldives security and prosperity. @MMuizzu gov must distance itself from these comments and give clear assurance to India they do not reflect gov policy.— Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) January 7, 2024Nasheed said in a post on microblogging platform X (formerly Twitter), 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. Indias investments in MaldivesIndia and Maldives share strong cultural and economic ties, with India playing a crucial role in supporting the Maldives tourism industry and maritime security. The island nation heavily relies on Indian tourist inflows and infrastructure advancements backed by Indian investments.However, another Maldivian minister, Zahid Rameez also criticised Modis Lakshadweep visit. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter), The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer How can they be so clean The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall. The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer How can they be so clean The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall. ๐คท๐ป‍โ๏ธ https://t.co/AzWMkcxdcf— Zahid Rameez (@xahidcreator) January 5, 2024Indian social media witnessed calls for a boycott of the Maldives in response to these comments, further adding to the diplomatic tension.
