India Summons Maldives Envoy Amid Dispute Over Derogatory Remarks Against PM Modi

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 8th Jan. India has summoned the Maldives envoy in response to derogatory remarks made by three ministers from the island nation against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The criticism came after PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep, with a Maldivian lawmaker suggesting that India is trying to promote the Union Territory as a rival tourist destination to the Maldives. Two other Maldivian ministers also made derogatory remarks about PM Modi, sharing photos from his trip.

These statements caused widespread outrage in the Maldives, with many prominent leaders condemning the remarks.

Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed called the comments “appalling” and urged President Mohamed Muizzus government to distance itself from them.

The Maldivian foreign ministry stated that it is aware of derogatory remarks on social media against foreign leaders, but emphasized that these are personal views and do not reflect the government’s position.

In response to the controversy, the three ministers involved – Maryam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef, and Mahzoom Majid – have been suspended.

Some Indians on social media claimed to have canceled their planned vacations to the Maldives as a result.