The recent diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives have escalated after derogatory comments were made against India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Maldivian ministers. In protest, travel companies have suspended bookings to the Maldives and tourists have cancelled their plans, threatening the Maldives’ tourism-dependent economy.
Derogatory Comments Cause Uproar
It all began when Mariyam Shiuna, a Maldivian Deputy Minister, referred to PM Modi as a “clown” and a “puppet of Israel” on social media. Other leaders joined in making offensive remarks following Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep. The comments sparked outrage in India and diplomatic pressure prompted the Maldives government to suspend Shiuna and two other ministers. However, the damage was already done.
Mass Cancellations Hurt Maldives Tourism
Indian tourists make up the largest group visiting the Maldives, with over two lakh arrivals last year. In response to the remarks, over 8,000 hotel bookings and 2,500 flight tickets were scrapped by Indians. Major online travel firm EaseMyTrip also suspended all Maldives bookings. Industry experts expect a major dip in Maldives travel from India in the coming weeks as anger continues. Since tourism accounts for around 30% of the Maldives’ GDP, the economic impacts could be severe.
Social Media Campaigns Promote Alternatives
Hashtags like #BoycottMaldives and #ExploreIndianIslands began trending on social media as Indians expressed outrage. Many urged exploring domestic destinations instead, with special focus on promoting Lakshadweep as an alternative to the Maldives. Several Bollywood celebrities like Akshay Kumar and John Abraham voiced support to exploring India’s natural beauty and condemned the “hateful and racist” remarks. Their endorsements aimed to boost local island destinations.
Political Fallout Continues
Beyond just the economic costs, the diplomatic rift has escalated political tensions. The Maldivian opposition criticized the government’s handling of the issue. Former presidents also spoke against the use of derogatory language towards India, given its importance as an ally and trading partner. Within India, opposition parties attacked the Modi government’s response as being too weak. Continued political disagreements threaten to further damage Indo-Maldives relations in the future.
Looking For Resolutions
While investigations continue into the fire that destroyed a passenger train in Bangladesh last week, killing four, attention has now shifted to addressing the economic and diplomatic fallout of the India-Maldives tensions. Both countries understand the need to amicably resolve issues and prevent further damages to their historically strong ties. However, meaningful actions will be required to regain lost trust on both sides. With cooperation and mutual understanding, it may yet be possible to limit longer-term adverse impacts on tourism, trade and shared strategic interests in the broader Indian Ocean region.
