Maldives' govt warns action against officials for anti-India remarks

The Maldivian government promised on Sunday that it will not hesitate to take action against individuals who make derogatory remarks that spread hatred and hinder close bilateral relationships, after a recent spate of disparaging remarks against India, by several Maldivian government officials.

A row erupted on social media last week, after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a video of him in a beach in Lakshadweep.

Several pro-Indian government accounts began sharing the video, which they said would promote tourism in Lakshadweep, and become a setback for Maldives – which has an award-winning tourism industry.

Several top government officials also got involved in the row.

In a statement on Sunday afternoon, the Maldivian Foreign Ministry said they were aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals.

“These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives,” said the ministry.

The Maldivian government said it believes that the freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, and in ways that do not spread hatred, negativity, and hinder close relationships between the Maldives and its international partners.

“Moreover, the relevant authorities of the Government will not hesitate to take action against those who make such derogatory remarks,” reads the statement.

Earlier on Sunday, former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed urged President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration to distance itself from the comments, and give clear assurance to India, that the remarks do not reflect government policy.

In a post on X, Nasheed, who took a break from active politics in December, stressed that India is a key ally, that is instrumental to Maldives’ security and prosperity.

He singled out Mariyam Shiuna, the deputy minister for youth, who he criticized for using “appalling language” against the leader of a key ally.

The pro-government accounts described Modi’s video as a call to visit Lakshadweep instead of the Maldives.

The campaign has been linked to the ‘India Out’ campaign which was launched by the current ruling party, back when it was in the opposition, demanding the expulsion of Indian military personnel from the Maldives.

President Muizzu had built his election campaign on that promise, and asked India to withdraw its soldiers, after he took office in November.

India is one of the top source markets for tourist arrivals to the Maldives.

209,198 Indian tourists visited the country last year – marking the highest number of arrivals by a single market.