Lakshadweep Row: Maldives FM Zameer Regrets 'Unacceptable' Remarks Made Against PM Modi

Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer has condemned the use of derogatory language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi that led to the sacking of three junior ministers from Mohamed Muizzu’s government.

“The recent remarks against foreign leaders and our close neighbours are unacceptable and do not reflect the official position of the Government of #Maldives. We remain committed to fostering a positive and constructive dialogue with all our partners, especially our neighbours, based on mutual respect and understanding,” Zameer wrote on X.

On Sunday, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu suspended three deputy ministers for making “derogatory remarks” against Modi. Muizzu, who won the September elections on promises that included removing a small contingent of Indian troops operating maritime aircraft from his archipelago, banned the ministers from work pending an investigation.

On January 4, PM Modi posted on social media praising the “pristine beaches” of Lakshadweep islands, which lie about 130 kilometres north of the Maldives at their closest point. He posted photographs of himself snorkelling, and suggested the islands should be on the must-visit list of any adventure-seeking tourist. One deputy minister, Mariyam Shiuna, had called Modi a “clown” following the prime minister’s visit to the Lakshadweep.

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The three suspended ministers — Malsha Shareef, Abdulla Mahzoon and Shiuna — are all from the youth ministry. They criticised Modi on social media, officials said. “The government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high ranking individuals,” the government said in a statement. “These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the government of Maldives.”

Senior Maldivian politician Qasim Ibrahim said the “behaviour” of three officials goes against the principles of diplomacy and mutual respect, warning that the incident has the potential to negatively impact the long-standing bond between the two nations.

Ibrahim stressed that India has consistently been a steadfast friend to Maldives, and it is important that the Island nation uphold the values of friendship and goodwill that have defined these ties for centuries. “Let us by any means, not allow such degrading remarks to tarnish the strong and enduring friendship between our two countries. We must remember that our actions reflect our values, and it is crucial that we demonstrate respect and uphold the principles of diplomacy in all our interactions,” he added.