Maldives ex-prez Nasheed condemns language used for PM Modi, calls India key ally amid tensions

Calling India a key ally, former president of Maldives Mohammad Nashed condemned the derogatory language used for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi by ministers in the incumbent government of the archipelago nation on Sunday, January 7. 

Leaders part of the Maldives government had mocked PM Modi’s recent Lakshadweep visit undertaken by him earlier this week. Nasheed said that the language used for India’s top leader was appalling, adding that India as a neighbour is crucial for Maldives’ security and prosperity. 

“What appalling language by Maldives Government official @shiuna_m towards the leader of a key ally, that is instrumental for Maldives’ security and prosperity,” said Nasheed in a post on X. Nasheed said this in response to the comments of Mariyam Shiuna, the Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment. 

Nasheed asks Muizzu to distance the gov 

Calling upon the incumbent president Mohammand Muizzu, Nasheed asked that the government must distance itself from the derogatory comments being made by the leaders for the Indian PM, suggesting that Muizzu must assure India that the comments do not reflect the government’s stand. “Mohammad Muizzu gov must distance itself from these comments and give clear assurance to India they do not reflect gov policy,” Nasheed added. 

PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep 

The entire controversy began after PM Modi went snorkeling to explore the undersea life at Lakshadweep islands and encouraged people to explore the picturesque island. PM Modi also  advocated for the ‘vocal for local’ campaign to bolster tourism at the Indian island, while many compared it with Maldives.

As leaders from Maldives indulged in mocking India's attempt to ‘promote Lakshadweep’, Boycott Maldives started trending on X.