IndiaMaldivesRow: Former Maldives Minister Defends India Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives have taken center stage, with derogatory comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi sparking a controversy. Former Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi has come forward to express her dismay over the comments, highlighting the longstanding and reliable alliance between India and the Maldives.

In the midst of the diplomatic row, Mariya Ahmed Didi criticized the “short-sightedness” of the Maldives government for making disparaging remarks against PM Modi. She emphasized India’s role as a reliable ally, extending support in various sectors, including defense. Didi stressed the need to uphold the longstanding relationship between the two nations and cautioned against undermining the significant ties.

Addressing the disrespectful comments, Didi underscored India as the “911 call” for the Maldives, emphasizing the consistent assistance provided by India in times of need. She emphasized India’s contributions to the defense sector, including capacity building, equipment provision, and efforts to enhance self-sufficiency.

The row escalated further as Maldivian Member of Parliament Mickail Naseem called on the Parliament to summon the Foreign Minister for inaction and lack of urgency in responding to the derogatory remarks. Naseem emphasized the need for accountability and swift action against the senior officials responsible for the disrespectful comments against PM Modi.

Congress leader Manish Tewari echoed concerns about the Maldives aligning with the Chinese “sphere of influence,” calling for a reality check. Tewari’s remarks came amid the ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives.

As the situation unfolded, the Maldivian envoy to India was summoned by the External Affairs Ministry to convey strong concerns over disparaging social media posts against PM Modi. The diplomatic dialogue aimed at addressing the issue and ensuring that such incidents do not strain bilateral relations further.

The controversy has led to a travel platform, EaseMyTrip, suspending flight bookings to the Maldives indefinitely. Many have also expressed concerns about potential economic repercussions, with calls for the government to take swift action to resolve the issue.

The row between India and the Maldives gained prominence after PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep, followed by derogatory comments from Maldivian ministers. The incident has prompted discussions on the impact of the controversy on tourism and economic relations between the two nations.

As the diplomatic situation evolves, the responses from key figures in both countries continue to shape the narrative, reflecting the complexities of international relations in the South Asian region. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.