In a significant development, former President of Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed, has strongly condemned the derogatory remarks made by Mariyam Shiuna, a Maldives government official, directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his visit to Lakshadweep.
Expressing deep concern over what he termed “appalling language” used by Shiuna, Nasheed emphasized the need for the Maldives government, led by Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, to distance itself from these comments. He called for clear assurance to India that such remarks do not reflect the official policy of the Maldivian government.
Nasheed underscored India’s pivotal role in ensuring the security and prosperity of the Maldives. He urged Muizzu to provide reassurance to New Delhi that the comments made by Shiuna are not aligned with the strategic cooperation between the two nations.
The criticism comes in the wake of insulting remarks by Mariyam Shiuna, who serves as the Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, directed at PM Modi’s Lakshadweep visit. Notably, these comments have been deleted from social media platforms.
Adding to the concerns, Zahid Rameez, a member of the Progressive Party of Maldives Senate, also ridiculed PM Modi and questioned whether Lakshadweep could match the services provided by the Maldives. This wave of criticism has triggered displeasure among Indian social media users, leading to a campaign urging a boycott of travel to the Maldives.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep on January 2 aimed at reinforcing India’s commitment to the development of the Union Territory. During the visit, he laid the foundation stone for ambitious development projects totaling over ₹1,150 crore in Agatti.
The evolving political dynamics in the Maldives, including President Mohamed Muizzu’s upcoming visit to China, have raised concerns about the strained relationship with India and a potential shift in diplomatic allegiances. In a notable move, the Maldives had earlier announced its decision not to renew the Hydrographic Survey agreement with India.
