Maldivian Minister Hassan Zihan denies suspension amid 'Derogatory Remarks' controversy against PM Modi
Maldivian Deputy Minister Hassan Zihan refutes reports of his cabinet suspension, along with other ministers, dismissing it as 'fake news' based on a local media tweet.
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The denial follows claims by Adhadhu that deputy youth ministers Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef, and Mahzoom Majid were suspended for derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Adhadhu, citing a government source, reported the suspension due to disparaging statements after PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit.
Tensions escalated as Maldivian officials exchanged heated messages with Indian citizens on 'X.' The controversy arose from derogatory posts about PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep on January 2.
On the social media platform 'X,' PM Modi posted a series of images showcasing the picturesque white beaches, clear blue skies, and the pristine ocean. Accompanying the pictures was a tagged message from the PM Modi, "For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list."
"What appalling language by Maldives Government official @shiuna_m towards the leader of a key ally, that is instrumental for Maldives' security and prosperity. @MMuizzu gov must distance itself from these comments and give clear assurance to India they do not reflect gov policy," Nasheed posted on X.
Some members of India's film industry expressed solidarity with PM Modi and condemned the derogatory comments made by Maldivian leaders against India and its leader. Additionally, they endorsed PM Modi's initiative to promote beach tourism in Lakshadweep.
In a forceful post on 'X,' actor Akshay Kumar criticized Maldivian leaders for ridiculing PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit, condemning their "hateful and racist comments" that drew parallels between beach tourism in India and the island nation. The 'Khiladi' actor underscored India's significant role as a major contributor to the Maldives' tourism, highlighting that India sends the highest number of tourists to the island nation.
"Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists. We are good to our neighbors but why should we tolerate such unprovoked hate? I've visited the Maldives many times and always praised it, but dignity first. Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism," Akshay Kumar posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists.
We are good to our neighbors but
why should we tolerate such… pic.twitter.com/DXRqkQFguN— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) January 7, 2024
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan commended Prime Minister Modi for his visit to Lakshadweep, appreciating the 'cool' and beautiful pictures shared from the island. Khan expressed delight in seeing PM Modi at the pristine beaches of Lakshadweep, emphasizing the beauty within India.
Actress Kangana Ranaut criticized Maldives MP Zahid Rameez for making derogatory remarks against Indians, denouncing his comments as "crass and vulgarly racist."
Smell?? Permanent smell?? What!!! Suffering from massive Muslim phobia, even though belonging to the same community. Lakshadweep consists of 98 percent of Muslim population, this prominent public figure from Maldives calling them smelly and lowly is rather racist and uninformed.… pic.twitter.com/hLbQvD5RYD
— Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) January 7, 2024
Former cricketer Venkatesh Prasad also condemned Maldives Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment Mariyam Shiuna for her derogatory remarks against India.
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