As the conflict between the Maldives and India continues to worsen after three now-fired Maldivian ministers issued derogatory remarks about Prime Minister Modi and India, the island nation's former vice president Eva Abdulla on Sunday called the comments “shameful and racist.” The former president also apologized to India and asked the Indian people to end the boycott campaign against the Maldives.

Speaking to NDTV, Abdulla, who is also a member of parliament, said the anger over the comments was understandable. “The Indian people are really angry. The comments made were outrageous. However, these comments in no way reflect the views of Maldivian society. “I would like to personally apologize to the people of India for the shameful comments made,” he said. said.

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The feud started after several Maldivian ministers posted derogatory comments targeting India and Prime Minister Modi for posting photos and videos of his visit to Lakshadweep where he was seen snorkeling and relaxing on pristine beaches. His post encouraged social media users to choose Lakshadweep as an alternative holiday destination to the Maldives.

Later, three ministers Maryam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef and Mahzoom Majid were temporarily dismissed. “Those who posted such messages on social media while serving in government have now been dismissed from their jobs,” the Maldivian government said in a statement.

India-Maldives Relations

Relations between the two countries have been tense since Mohamed Muizzu, widely seen as a pro-China leader, was elected president. After being elected president, Muizzu pushed for the withdrawal of Indian troops from the Maldives due to security concerns. The President will also pay a state visit to China on January 8-12.

Ms Abdulla also reiterated the importance of strong ties between India and the Maldives and said the island nation relies on “long-standing ally” India for economic benefits, trade, education and tourism. “This is not a stance the Maldivian government can take towards India. “I hope these comments are a one-off and the current government will take strong action against anyone who makes such comments so they cannot be expressed again,” he said. .

Boycott campaign

Maldivian lawmakers also asked Indians to end the #BoycottMaldives campaign and “go back” to the islands for holidays. After the row began, many Indians on social media said they had canceled their holiday plans to the island nation and several Bollywood celebrities touted Lakshadweep as an alternative tourist destination.

“The comments of one or two people should not reflect the views of Maldivians towards India. “We want to ask the Indian people to return to the Maldives and end the boycott campaign,” he said.