Xenophobia Among Gov’t Officials Spark Maldives-India Tension

The tensions between the Maldives and India have risen due to derogatory social media posts by two deputy ministers in the Maldivian government. 

Mariyam Shiuna and Malsha Shareef, serving as the Deputy Ministers of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, faced criticism for insulting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in tweets that labelled him a ‘clown’ and a ‘puppet of Israel.’

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The controversy unfolded last Thursday when Prime Minister Modi shared a promotional video of his visit to Lakshadweep, aimed at boosting tourism in the region. Although the offensive posts were later deleted in response to the backlash from Indian social media users, the incident has stirred discontent and accusations of unprofessional conduct among Maldives government officials.

Indian Market is Invaluable to Maldivian Economy 

Critics argue that such behaviour tarnishes the country’s image and raises questions about the professionalism of senior officials. Some individuals, including user @MrSinha_, expressed concerns about the viability of the Maldives competing with India in tourism, emphasising potential drawbacks such as cleanliness issues and persistent odours in accommodations.

India, as per the latest data from the Maldives Ministry of Tourism, maintained its status as the leading source of tourist arrivals in 2023, with 209,198 visitors. While this represents a slight decrease from the previous year, the consistent flow of Indian tourists underscores the enduring appeal of the Maldives for travellers from the subcontinent.

Unprofessional Conduct from Gov’t Officials

Amid the controversy, calls for accountability and apologies have emerged, with Indian newspapers and social media activists demanding action against the deputy ministers. Locals in the Maldives and prominent figures, including former President Mohamed Nasheed and MRM President Faris Maumoon, have criticised the unprofessional conduct of senior government officials.

Former Foreign Minister Ahmed Shaheed emphasised the importance of discipline among senior positions, expressing concerns about the potential impact of the remarks on diplomatic relations and tourism in the region. Questions have been raised about whether the two deputies considered the broader implications for neighbouring countries like Maldives.

Adding to the discourse, former Maldivian Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail took to Twitter, accusing Dr Mohamed Muizzu of using India as a political tool to instigate an environment of intolerance and fear for electoral gain. Fayyaz underscored the continuous racist stance reflected in the vitriolic statements made by government officials, urging a cessation of attacks on a staunch ally and friend. 

He emphasised that the President, having achieved the objective of winning the elections, should halt actions endangering not only the Maldives’ economy and citizen well-being but also the overall security and stability of the Indian Ocean.

Is It Criticism of Indian Military in Maldives or Plain Xenophobia

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has expressed surprise and concern over encountering hateful and racist comments from prominent public figures in the Maldives directed towards Indians. As a frequent visitor to the Maldives, Akshay questioned the tolerance of such unprovoked hate towards a country that significantly contributes to the Maldives’ tourism industry. Advocating for dignity and national support, he initiated the hashtag #ExploreIndianIslands, urging solidarity with domestic tourism.

Zahid Rameez clarified his stance in a tweet, thanking Akshay Kumar and expressing that he was misunderstood. Zahid asserted that he holds nothing personal against India, Indians, or Prime Minister Modi. He clarified that his sentiments were rooted in concerns about growing Indian influence in Maldivian political affairs over the past five years, with the former ruling MDP party being held accountable. Emphasising that not everything functions like in movies, he urged a nuanced understanding of the political landscape.

In reply to a tweet by user @MrSinha_, Zahid expressed his perspective, stating, “The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall.”

Beyond celebrities, other Twitter users, like @hamxas, voiced their opinions. @hamxas, suggesting hypothetical presidential authority, proposed firing all individuals holding official posts who attacked Modi and India on social media. Stressing the potential damage to the tourism industry, @hamxas highlighted the responsibility that comes with the use of public funds, earned mainly through tourism.

As the controversy unfolds, there is a growing call for President Mohamed Muizzu to take decisive action, potentially involving the removal of the two deputy youth ministers from their positions. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibility of government officials on social media and the potential consequences of their actions.