Over the weekend, the Maldives government took action against three ministers for their disparaging remarks on social media targeting India and its leadership. The government emphasized its disassociation from these comments and urged officials to refrain from actions that could strain relationships with international partners.
Among the suspended officials were Zahid Rameez, a prominent figure from the Progressive Party of Maldives, part of the ruling coalition, and Mariyam Shiuna, a deputy minister. The controversy arose when these leaders reacted to social media posts comparing Lakshadweep to the Maldives after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the islands.
Ibrahim Khaleel, the President of Maldives' spokesperson, announced the immediate suspension of the officials responsible for the comments. Although the names were not disclosed, reports from local media identified Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid, all serving as deputy ministers in the ministry of youth empowerment, information, and art. There's uncertainty if any action was taken against Rameez.
Sources, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that Indian authorities expressed concerns to the Maldives government regarding the offensive remarks. This incident occurs as the new Maldivian President, Mohamed Muizzu, perceived to be pro-China, called for the withdrawal of 77 Indian military personnel stationed in the archipelago to operate helicopters and an aircraft.
During Modi's recent visit to Lakshadweep, he praised the islands' beauty and the warmth of its inhabitants on social media, encouraging adventurous travelers to consider visiting. Consequently, numerous posts surfaced advocating for Indian tourists to choose Lakshadweep over the Maldives due to the Maldivian government's perceived alignment with China. Muizzu, who took office last November, departed from tradition by announcing a visit to China before India. Typically, New Delhi hosts the initial visit for Maldivian presidents, but Muizzu's first bilateral visit was to Turkey.
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