Male: Two Maldivian ministers have resigned after making derogatory remarks against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as confirmed by the government of President Mohamed Muizzu on Tuesday. The resignations come just days before President Muizzu’s planned visit to New Delhi, signalling an attempt by the Maldivian administration to repair strained ties with India.
The ministers, Malsha Sharif and Mariam Shiuna, were among three members of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information, and the Arts who were suspended in January this year after making inflammatory comments about PM Modi on social media platform X. A third minister, Abdullah Mahzoom Majeed, was also suspended for his involvement in the incident, as reported by Reuters.
A Diplomatic Gesture Ahead of a High-Profile Visit
The decision to accept the ministers’ resignations appears to be a strategic move by President Muizzu to demonstrate his commitment to fostering a stronger relationship with India. Muizzu is set to visit New Delhi soon, marking his second visit to India following his attendance at PM Modi’s swearing-in ceremony. The president has described his forthcoming trip as an opportunity to promote “prosperity for the Maldives” through strengthened ties with India.
The Controversy Behind the Resignations
The ministers’ derogatory remarks were made following PM Modi’s visit to the Indian territory of Lakshadweep, where he praised the area for its tourism potential. In response, the three Maldivian ministers reportedly referred to PM Modi as a “clown,” a “terrorist,” and a “puppet of Israel,” sparking outrage in India and prompting a social media campaign by Indian celebrities promoting local tourism.
The resignations are being viewed as a significant step by the Muizzu administration to distance itself from the controversy and to extend an olive branch to India ahead of the president’s diplomatic engagement in New Delhi.
Evolving Relations Between India and the Maldives
The diplomatic relationship between the Maldives and India has been under scrutiny since President Muizzu’s recent election victory, which included a demand for the withdrawal of Indian defence personnel stationed in the Maldives. India subsequently withdrew its troops in May, leading to a temporary cooling of relations. However, recent diplomatic talks between the two countries have set a more positive tone, suggesting a mutual interest in improving bilateral ties.
Muizzu has emphasised the importance of maintaining strong relations with India, expressing optimism that his upcoming visit will contribute to both countries’ prosperity. The resignations of the ministers could be seen as an effort to clear the path for more constructive dialogue.
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