NEW DELHI: The Maldives government on Sunday criticised “derogatory” remarks made by some Maldivians against India.
It said the freedom of expression should be exercised in a responsible manner and “in ways that do not spread hatred, negativity, and hinder close relationships between the Maldives and its international partners”.
The social media remarks by the Maldivians, including some government officials and politicians, followed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Lakshadweep, an archipelago off the coast of Kerala state, after which many Indian right-wing social media users made comments asking Indians not to travel to the Maldives and instead go to the Indian coastal region.
“The government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the government of Maldives,” it said in a statement.
The government said it will not hesitate “to take action against those who make such derogatory remarks”.
The government suspended deputy ministers Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid for their comments, according to local media.
The comments, seen as disparaging towards India and mocking Modi’s visit, ignited calls on social media to boycott the Maldives, a tropical holiday destination known globally for its stunning beaches and top-class island resorts.
Ahmed Adeeb, a former Maldivian minister, said he “strongly condemns any derogatory and racist comments” against Modi and the “beloved citizens of India”.
He said the Maldives tourism industry is based on the principles of hospitality, tolerance, peace, and harmony.
The Maldives received more than 1.8 million international tourists in 2023, surpassing its target for the year.
Its top sources of tourists include India, Russia, China, Britain and the European Union.
– BERNAMA-ANADOLU
