In a recent turn of events, the Maldivian High Commissioner to Bharat, Ibrahim Shaheeb, faced a stern dressing-down at the External Affairs Ministry on Monday. The meeting was prompted by derogatory remarks on social media against Bharat Prime Minister Narendra Modi made by three junior ministers in President Mohamed Muizzu’s government.
Sources reveal that the Indian authorities expressed their displeasure, emphasizing that the Maldives had strained bilateral relations. The responsibility to mend the ties was laid squarely on President Muizzu’s shoulders. Notably, the envoy was urged not just to suspend but to dismiss the three junior ministers involved in the controversy.
The interaction between the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Maldivian high commissioner was described as brief and blunt, lasting only four minutes. New Delhi’s frustration reportedly stems from President Muizzu’s silence on the matter, especially concerning the two lady ministers who are seen as the President’s spokespersons.
Speculations have arisen about the timing of the ministers’ remarks, questioning whether it was a deliberate attempt to create outrage just before President Muizzu’s upcoming visit to China to seek financial support from President Xi Jinping.
The controversy revolves around the three deputy ministers who used objectionable language against Prime Minister Modi in response to his post about ‘X,’ following his visit to Lakshadweep. The comments suggested that the Indian Union Territory was being promoted as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives.
In response to the escalating situation, the Maldivian Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Sunday, acknowledging the “derogatory remarks” on social media. However, they clarified that these expressions were personal opinions and did not reflect the official stance of the Maldivian government.
As tensions rise between the two nations, the spotlight remains on President Muizzu’s role in repairing the strained diplomatic relations and addressing the fallout caused by the controversial remarks made by his ministers.
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