In the midst of escalating tensions between Bharat and the Maldives, popular travel and tourism platform EaseMyTrip has decided to suspend flight bookings to the island nation. CEO Nishant Pitti defended this move in response to accusations on social media that the company was “instigating” the diplomatic row between the two countries by taking a political stance.
Pitti clarified that the decision was not politically motivated but was in response to the prevailing circumstances. He explained that some users accused EaseMyTrip of playing a role in the tensions between Bharat and the Maldives. Pitti asserted that the accusations were unfounded and that the company was merely responding to the wishes of the majority in the Maldives who, in the November 2023 elections, supported a “India Out” campaign led by the newly elected Maldivian President.
The EaseMyTrip CEO pointed out that the Maldivian government had been signaling a pro-China stance, and as the second-largest tourism provider to the Maldives, the company was aligning with the evolving dynamics. Pitti emphasized that regardless of the Bharat government in power, EaseMyTrip would have made a similar decision to prioritize the dignity of the country.
As tensions continue to rise, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu recently made a formal request for Bharat to withdraw its troops from the Indian Ocean archipelago by March 15. The President’s spokesperson stated that the policy is in line with the current administration’s stance, and Bharat military personnel cannot remain in the Maldives. Meanwhile, New Delhi has indicated that discussions will be held to find a resolution to the issue.
These developments come on the heels of the suspension of three Maldivian ministers by the government for insulting Bharat Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media. The ministers faced consequences after making derogatory remarks when Modi shared photos of his visit to Lakshadweep.
In summary, EaseMyTrip’s decision to suspend flights reflects the complex geopolitical situation between Bharat and the Maldives, where political, economic, and military considerations are intertwining. The diplomatic row continues to unfold, with both nations engaged in discussions to address the escalating tensions.
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