New Delhi:
Several former Maldives ministers have posted comments in support of India on social media after one of their colleagues sparked controversy with derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The wave of comments came after the government of Maldives distanced itself from comments made by Mariyam Shiuna and others following a push from its former president Mohammed Nasheed. The ministers who posted the comments have been suspended.
“I condemn the use of hateful language against #India by Maldivian government officials on social media. India has always been a good friend of Maldives and we must not allow such callous remarks to negatively impact the centuries-old friendship between our two countries,” wrote former Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on X, formerly Twitter.
“I strongly condemn all derogatory and racist comments by a group of Maldivian politicians towards His Excellency Prime Minister Modi @PMOIndia and beloved citizens of India,” the island nation’s former minister Ahmed Adeeb wrote on X.
“Given the global economic challenges and the vulnerability of the Maldives tourism industry and economy, it is critical for us to maintain a friendly and humble approach while promoting positive relations with all nations,” he added.
We founded the tourism industry in the Maldives based on the principles of hospitality, tolerance, peace and harmony. Through strategic positioning and collaborations with global brands and investments, including from India, we have successfully positioned the Maldives as…
— Ahmed Adeeb (@Ahmed_Adeeb) January 7, 2024
“I call on the government to reprimand these officials. Public figures must maintain decency. They must accept that they are no longer social media activists and that they are now given the responsibility of protecting the interests of the people and the country,” wrote former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid.
“India is a trusted friend and a steadfast ally. They have historically been the first to respond in our time of need. Our close relationship is characterized by mutual respect, history, culture and strong interpersonal relationships,” he added.
Derogatory remarks from two deputy ministers of the department #Maldives Government and a member of a political party in the governing coalition opposite the Prime Minister @narendramodi and the Indian people on social media are reprehensible and vile.
I call on the government… pic.twitter.com/kCjEyg4yjb
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) January 7, 2024
The controversy started after Prime Minister Modi posted about snorkeling there during his visit to Lakshadweep. The post went viral and triggered positive reactions from social media users about Laskshadweep's tourism prospects. Many suggested that the Union Territory island could even become an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives.
This had angered some in the Maldives and Mariyam Shiuna, deputy minister for youth empowerment, information and arts, had posted derogatory comments about Prime Minister Modi, drawing a sharp rebuke from his former president Mohammed Nasheed. Another minister from the island nation accused India of targeted attacks off the archipelago and said India faces major challenges in competing with the Maldives in beach tourism.
Many Indians have canceled tour bookings in the island nation and the hashtag #BoycottMaldives is gaining traction on social media.
“I am deeply concerned about the escalating situation regarding sensitive comments about our nearest neighbor. A boycott of the Maldives by Indians would have a huge impact on our economy. It would be difficult for us to recover from such a campaign. I appeal to the government.” “We must quickly take serious measures to solve the problem as soon as possible,” tweeted former youth minister Ahmed Mahloof. Shortly afterwards, the government suspended ministers Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha and Hassan Zihan, local media reported.