Controversy between India and Maldives: A Deep Dive into Geopolitics

The Background

In January 2024, Prime Minister Modi shared some pictures from Lakshadweep on his social media handles. While the pictures did not mention anything about Maldives, it sparked a negative reaction from some politicians in the Maldivian government. This reaction led to a strain in the friendship between the two countries, and the hashtag #BoycottMaldives started trending on social media.

The controversy arose from comments made by three Maldivian ministers - Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef, and Abdullah Mahzoom Majid. These comments not only showcased their insecurity but also included personal attacks against India and Prime Minister Modi. Mariyam called PM Modi "a puppet of Israel," while her colleagues accused India of challenging the tourism industry in Maldives. Mahzoom Majid made derogatory comments about Indian culture.

The social media war escalated quickly, with Indians canceling their flight and hotel bookings to Maldives. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Maldivian Foreign Ministry clarified that the ministers' opinions were personal and did not represent the views of the government. Subsequently, the government suspended the three ministers.

The Geopolitical Context

To understand the controversy, it is crucial to delve into the geopolitical dynamics between India and Maldives. Maldives, a small country with a population of around 500,000 people, heavily relies on tourism. Approximately 28% of its GDP comes from tourism, and India is the leading source of tourists. In 2023 alone, over 200,000 Indian tourists visited Maldives, contributing to a total of 1.75 million tourists that year.

Beyond tourism, India and Maldives have a strategic alliance. India has played a significant role in initiatives like SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). Additionally, Indian military officers and soldiers are stationed in Maldives, and India has provided assistance during natural calamities and conducted search and rescue operations. The presence of Indian warships in Maldives' exclusive economic zone aims to prevent terrorism and illegal activities.

The geopolitical landscape shifted when the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) came into power in 2013, distancing themselves from India and growing closer to China. Chinese companies secured infrastructure contracts in Maldives, and the country joined China's Belt and Road Initiative, resulting in a significant debt burden.

In 2018, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) regained power, once again fostering close ties with India. The new government extended the contract for Indian helicopters, received financial aid, and even received COVID-19 vaccines from India. However, the lack of transparency regarding bilateral agreements and the presence of Indian forces in Maldives became contentious issues, propelling the India Out sentiment.

The India Out Movement

The India Out sentiment gained traction among certain Maldivian politicians who opposed India's presence. The sentiment resonated with some citizens, leading to a shift in power during the 2023 elections. The right-wing party, People's National Congress (PNC), formed an alliance with the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), and their candidate, Mohamed Muizzu, became the President.

Muizzu openly demanded the withdrawal of Indian forces from Maldives, sparking a controversy. His ministers further insulted PM Modi and India, causing the social media war and the #BoycottMaldives movement. However, it is crucial to recognize that the India Out sentiment is rooted in Maldives' internal politics rather than specific issues related to Lakshadweep.

The Future of India-Maldives Relations

The controversy highlights the influence of politics in shaping international relationships. As the governing party changes in Maldives, so does its stance toward India. The current government's shift toward China suggests a potential realignment of alliances.

Despite the political fluctuations, promoting Indian tourism is essential. However, it should be done responsibly, ensuring the preservation of local biodiversity and the well-being of local communities. Tourism should not come at the expense of the environment or the livelihoods of the Maldivian people.

In conclusion, the India-Maldives controversy stemmed from internal politics rather than genuine concerns about Lakshadweep. Hateful politics can have detrimental effects on a country, misleading individuals and inciting fear. Understanding the geopolitical context helps shed light on the dynamics between India and Maldives, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and mutual understanding.

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