India-Maldives Row Over Derogatory Remarks: Maldivian Ministers Suspended For Insulting PM Modi's Lakshadweep Visit
These posts, considered insulting to India, prompted backlash, with some Indians reportedly canceling planned trips to the picturesque island nation.
India expressed concerns on Sunday regarding recent "derogatory" remarks made by Maldives Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Mariyam Shiuna, against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Indian High Commissioner in Male reportedly raised the issue with the Maldivian government. Maldives President Mohammad Muizzu's administration distanced itself from Shiuna's comments, taking decisive action by suspending ministers responsible for inflammatory social media posts targeting India and Prime Minister Modi. These posts, considered insulting to India, prompted backlash, with some Indians reportedly canceling planned trips to the picturesque island nation.
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement outlining the Indian government's stance, confirming the suspension of government officials involved in derogatory social media posts. However, the statement did not disclose the names of the suspended ministers. Local media reports suggest that Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha, and Hassan Zihan are among those facing suspension.
The controversy originated when these ministers and other Maldivian leaders posted disparaging remarks about PM Modi after he shared photos and videos from a recent visit to Lakshadweep. Viral posts featuring PM Modi snorkeling led social media users to suggest Lakshadweep as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives.
This incident highlights the diplomatic sensitivities associated with social media communications and underscores the swift actions taken by the Maldivian government to address the issue and maintain amicable relations with India. The suspension of ministers sends a clear message about the consequences of official figures engaging in disparaging online behavior, especially towards neighboring countries. The move signifies the importance placed on preserving diplomatic ties and avoiding tensions that could affect tourism, a crucial sector for the Maldivian economy. As both countries navigate the aftermath, the incident emphasizes the need for responsible and respectful communication in the digital age, especially among officials representing nations with close diplomatic ties.
