Maldives Urged to Apologize for Derogatory Remarks Against Indian PM Modi

Maldivian Member of Parliament (MP) and former Deputy Speaker, Eva Abdulla, has called on the Maldivian government to issue a formal apology to the Indian people following derogatory remarks made by a section of Maldivian MPs about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Lakshadweep. Abdulla emphasized the need for the government to distance itself from the comments made by the minister and urged a formal apology to India.

The comments in question were made by Maldivian Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Mariyam Shiuna, in a now-deleted post, where she made disrespectful references to PM Modi's visit to the Indian island cluster.

Abdulla stressed that these remarks were shameful, racist, and intolerable, adding that they did not represent the views of the Maldivian people, who are grateful for India's support in various aspects of their lives, including economic relations, health, education, trade, and tourism. She extended an apology for the derogatory remarks and urged Indians to continue visiting the Maldives.

The Maldivian government has distanced itself from Minister Mariyam Shiuna's comments, stating that her opinions are personal and do not reflect the government's views. It also emphasized the importance of responsible freedom of expression and warned against spreading hatred or negativity.

Maldivian MP Hussain Shaheem also condemned the derogatory remarks and reaffirmed the close friendship between India and the Maldives.