The News Freedom
New Delhi, January 8
Maldives opposition lawmaker Meekail Naseem has filed a parliamentary request to summon Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer and three deputy ministers over comments deemed “derogatory” against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing concerns of harming bilateral ties and impacting the Maldivian economy, Maldives-based news outlet the Sun Online reported.
Naseem, a member of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), shared his request on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Monday. He called for an inquiry into why the Maldivian government has not officially apologized to India and dismissed the deputy ministers involved.
The MP also filed a separate request to summon the three deputy ministers and relevant government officials. He argued that their remarks have strained India-Maldives relations to an unprecedented level, potentially causing “irrevocable losses” to the Maldivian economy.
Naseem noted a recent surge in Indian travel agencies canceling bookings to the Maldives, expressing concern about its impact on Maldivians who rely heavily on India for medical care and other necessities. He further warned of the potential for the spat to sever the historical ties between the two nations.
Meanwhile, the Maldivian government today clarified its stance to India’s High Commissioner, Munu Muhawar, stating that the disrespectful comments made by three deputy ministers—currently suspended—about Prime Minister Narendra Modi do not reflect the government’s position. The Indian High Commissioner had a meeting with Ali Naseer Mohamed, the Ambassador-at-Large at the Maldives Foreign Ministry, as reported by the Sun Online.
The External Affairs Ministry on Monday also summoned the Maldivian envoy to India, expressing deep concern over social media remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Maldivian ministers, as per media reports.
In a swift response to offensive comments made on social media, the Maldives government on Sunday suspended three deputy ministers—Malsha, Maryam Shiuna, and Mahzoom Masjid—following their derogatory remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India. The comments, posted on X (formerly Twitter) after Modi’s recent video promoting Lakshadweep tourism, have stirred controversy.
The offensive posts drew strong backlash from India, leading the Indian High Commission in Maldives to raise grave concerns with the Maldives Foreign Office. Reacting promptly, the Maldives government enforced the suspensions.
The Maldives Foreign Ministry, while acknowledging the offensive nature of the remarks, stressed that they did not align with the government’s views. Emphasizing responsible use of freedom of expression, the ministry condemned hate speech and negativity that could strain international relations.
The incident sparked a flurry of activity on social media. Indian celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, John Abraham, and Sachin Tendulkar supported their nation, advocating for domestic tourism by promoting alternative destinations within India, such as Lakshadweep and Sindhudurg. Bollywood figures like Kangana Ranaut and Madhur Bhandarkar also contributed, highlighting the significance of responsible tourism and preserving untouched natural beauty.