Two Maldivian Ministers Resign Amid Diplomatic Tensions with India

Two junior ministers in the Maldivian government resigned on Tuesday, following a suspension earlier this year for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The incident has contributed to rising tensions between the Maldives and India, just as Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu prepares for an official visit to New Delhi.

Background

In January, President Mohamed Muizzu suspended three Maldivian ministers after they allegedly insulted PM Modi. One of the ministers had reportedly referred to Modi as a "clown," which led to protests from Indian public figures who even called for a boycott of Maldives tourism, a key pillar of the island nation’s economy.

Resignations Before India Visit

A Maldivian government official confirmed that two of the suspended ministers resigned, citing "personal reasons." These resignations come at a critical time, with President Muizzu expected to visit India soon. The visit could be crucial in easing the strained relations between the two countries.

Impact of Social Media Remarks

The now-resigned ministers had taken to social media to criticize Modi, sparking a significant backlash in India. Prominent Indian celebrities voiced their concerns and called for a boycott of the Maldives as a tourist destination, intensifying the diplomatic fallout. Tourism is vital to the Maldivian economy, and any decline could have severe economic repercussions.

Diplomatic Strains and Geopolitical Concerns

India and Maldives have traditionally shared close ties, with India viewing the Maldives as part of its regional sphere of influence. However, under President Muizzu, who is considered pro-China, there has been growing suspicion in New Delhi over Beijing’s increasing involvement in the Maldives. India is particularly concerned about Chinese military influence in a nation that sits along major global shipping lanes.

Lakshadweep Controversy

Earlier this year, diplomatic relations between the two countries deteriorated when Maldivian leaders criticized PM Modi for promoting Lakshadweep as a competing tourist destination. Modi’s social media posts, featuring photos of his snorkeling adventures, appeared to be aimed at attracting Indian tourists to Lakshadweep, rather than the Maldives. Maldivian officials interpreted this as an attempt to divert tourism revenue from their country.

Muizzu's Upcoming India Visit

Despite the tension, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu is set to visit India "very soon," according to his spokesperson Heena Waleed.

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This trip comes after Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar visits the Maldives last month, marking a thaw in the strained relationship. It is hoped that Muizzu’s visit will further improve ties, particularly as he has toned down his anti-India stance since taking office.