India on Monday summoned Maldives High Commissioner Ibrahim Shaheeb amid a diplomatic row over Maldivian ministers objectionable comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Visuals showed the envoy arriving at the External Affairs Ministry in Delhi and later departing.India summons Maldives envoy over remarks on PM ModiShaheeb strongly conveyed Indias concerns over the derogatory remarks against PM Modi, reports said.#WATCH | Ibrahim Shaheeb, Maldives Envoy exits the MEA in Delhis South Block.He had reached the Ministry amid row over Maldives MPs post on PM Modis visit to Lakshadweep. pic.twitter.com/Dxsj3nkNvw— ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2024The meeting came after the Maldives government distanced itself on Sunday from the remarks by Ministers Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid. It stated their views were personal and did not represent Malé.#BoycottMaldivesThe comments sparked outrage on social media, with #BoycottMaldives trending and Indians supporting Modis pitch to promote Lakshadweep tourism. Several Indian celebrities rallied behind the PM, prompting some citizens to cancel Maldives trips.On Sunday, India took up the matter through its High Commissioner in Malé with the pro-China government of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. The Maldives then issued a statement disassociating itself from the ministers.Former Maldivian presidents like Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and Mohamed Nasheed condemned the remarks, stressing such statements should not hamper the age-old India-Maldives friendship.President Solih is yet to comment on the row.The strong Indian demarche signals displeasure over the undiplomatic comments against the Prime Minister. While the Maldives has clarified the remarks dont represent its stance, the controversy reflects emerging political complexities in bilateral ties.
