Controversy over Maldives is not stopping
In the aftermath of objectionable comments by Maldives government ministers about PM Modi and India, tensions escalate as the Maldivian government suspends three ministers. Leaders in Maldives are urging the government to issue an apology to the people of India in response to the diplomatic protest.
EaseMyTrip canceled booking
Simultaneously, online travel company EaseMyTrip takes a stand by suspending all flight bookings for Maldives in support of India. Nishant Pitti, the co-founder and CEO of EaseMyTrip, announced this decision on social media, expressing solidarity with India. The company has also initiated an online campaign for Lakshadweep.
In solidarity with our nation, @EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings ✈️ #TravelUpdate #SupportingNation #LakshadweepTourism #ExploreIndianlslands #Lakshadweep#ExploreIndianIslands @kishanreddybjp @JM_Scindia @PMOIndia @tourismgoi @narendramodi @incredibleindia https://t.co/wIyWGzyAZY
— Nishant Pitti (@nishantpitti) January 7, 2024
3 ministers were suspended
The three suspended ministers, Maryam Shiuna, Malsha Sharif, and Abdullah Mahjoom Majeed, were found guilty of making derogatory remarks against PM Modi after his visit to Lakshadweep. The President’s Office confirmed the suspension, citing objectionable posts against India as the reason.
How did the controversy start?
The controversy started when PM Modi shared photos from his visit to Lakshadweep on social media, leading to discussions and trending topics in Maldives. Some ministers and users in Maldives went beyond criticism, making derogatory comments about PM Modi. This included referring to him as a puppet of Israel. India expressed its displeasure, prompting the Maldivian government to announce action against those responsible.
The situation intensified when a Maldivian MP suggested that people should visit Maldives instead of witnessing the sunset in Lakshadweep. This remark further fueled the controversy and drew strong reactions from India.
