India-Maldives Diplomatic Row Escalates: Ministers Suspended, Tourism Takes A Hit

In a significant turn of events in context of the stir between India and Maldives, the Maldives government has suspended three of its ministers—Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha, and Hassan Zihan—for making derogatory remarks about India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This move comes in the wake of a social media controversy ignited by remarks against PM Modi after his recent visit to Lakshadweep. The suspension has led to a ripple effect, impacting not only diplomatic relations but also the Maldives' vital tourism sector, with over 8,000 hotel bookings and 2,500 flight tickets cancelled by Indian tourists.

The controversy began when Mariyam Shiuna, Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, posted a now-deleted video featuring pictures of PM Modi during his Lakshadweep visit. In the post, she referred to him as a 'clown' and a 'puppet of Israel.' The Maldivian Foreign Ministry, distancing itself from these remarks, stated that such opinions are personal and do not represent the government's views.

The aftermath of the incident has dealt a severe blow to the Maldives' tourism industry, heavily dependent on Indian visitors, who contribute a significant percentage annually. President of the Indian Association of Tour Operators, Rajiv Mehra, anticipates a substantial decline in Maldives travel within the next 20-25 days. The social media trend #BoycottMaldives has gained momentum, urging people to reconsider their holiday plans as reported by livemint.

Former Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih expressed his condemnation via X, stating, "I condemn the use of hateful language against India by Maldivian government officials on social media. India has always been a good friend to Maldives and we must not allow such callous remarks to negatively impact the age-old friendship between our two countries.”

As tensions rise, an alternative focus has emerged on Indian islands, with #ExploreIndianIslands trending on social media. Celebrities like John Abraham and Randeep Hooda have joined the online campaign, praising the beauty of Indian islands and encouraging domestic tourism.

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, expressing dismay at the derogatory remarks, condemned the hate and racism, urging people to explore Indian islands and support domestic tourism. Salman Khan, in a separate instance, commended PM Modi for his Lakshadweep visit, emphasizing the joy of having such picturesque locations within India.

Meanwhile, the Maldivian government has distanced itself from the 'personal remarks' made by the suspended ministers. The government stated that such opinions do not represent its views, and action will be taken against those making derogatory remarks.

Former Maldivian leaders, including ex-President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and former foreign minister Abdullah Shahid, have criticized the 'hateful' language used against India. They emphasized the historical friendship between the two nations and called for maintaining decorum in public discourse. Ahmed Mahloof, a former Maldivian minister, expressed concern over the economic impact of Indians boycotting the Maldives, urging the government to take swift action to resolve the issue.

The India-Maldives diplomatic row has escalated with the suspension of three ministers over derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The incident has not only strained diplomatic ties but also dealt a severe blow to the Maldives' tourism industry. As the fallout continues, calls for boycotting the Maldives on social media are gaining traction, while Indian islands are being promoted as alternative destinations. The diplomatic rift underscores the delicate balance between personal opinions and international relations, with potential repercussions on both sides.

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