Maldivian Minister Sparks Backlash with Controversial Post Targeting PM Modi’s Lakshadweep Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Lakshadweep has stirred controversy, as Maldivian Minister Abdulla Mahzoom Majid took to social media to express disapproval. In a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter), Majid alleged that the trip aimed to divert attention from the Maldives and promote tourism in Lakshadweep. This statement triggered a backlash, with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar encouraging Indians to explore their own coastlines and pristine islands. Tendulkar shared memories of his 50th birthday celebration in Sindhudurg, highlighting the beauty and hospitality of the coastal town. The controversy underscores diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives.
Sachin Tendulkar advocates exploring India’s coastlines and pristine islands, citing the country’s rich beauty and hospitality. Encouraging the “Atithi Devo Bhava” philosophy, he emphasizes the vast opportunities for creating memorable experiences within India.
Former Indian fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad strongly criticized Maldivian minister Mariyam Shiuna for her derogatory comments about India. Prasad highlighted the economic dependence of the Maldives on tourism, with over 15% of tourists coming from India. He expressed disappointment at a deputy minister using such language, emphasizing that the Maldives, being largely poor, relies significantly on upmarket tourism, particularly from India. Prasad sees this as an opportunity for India to develop its numerous unexplored beautiful coastal towns into attractive tourist destinations, thus contributing to the growth of tourism and fostering positive relations.
Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed strongly criticized the “appalling language” used by Maldivian minister Mariyam Shiuna against PM Modi. Nasheed urged the current government, led by Mohamed Muizzu, to distance itself from such comments, emphasizing the need for clarity and assurance that the statements don’t reflect the official government policy. The exchange underscores the strain in India-Maldives relations, with Nasheed seeking a diplomatic resolution to the controversy surrounding derogatory remarks made by Maldivian officials against India and its leaders.