HT's full coverage of Maldives row: PM Modi's tweet, ministers' remarks and more

We are ending HT's coverage of Maldives row which erupted after PM Modi's tweet on Lakshadweep visit which was followed by Maldives ministers' derogatory remarks against the Indian PM and India. Following this, Maldives suspended three ministers as Indians called for a ban on Maldives travel on social media while several celebrities praised Indian islands.

In a now-deleted post, Abdulla Mahzoom Majid said, “While I wish success for India's tourism, targeting the Maldives so explicitly isn't diplomatic. India faces significant challenges competing in beach tourism, considering our resort infrastructure exceeds their total islands.”

Maldives minister Mariyam Shiuna, who has now been suspended following major controversy, called PM Modi a "clown" and "puppet" in now-deleted posts on X after the Prime Minister posted pictures of his visit to Lakshadweep.

Actor Manoj Joshi shared on X his love for “mesmerising Lakshadweep” saying in a post, "Sardar Patel has contributed majorly to making these islands an integral part of India. Pakistan Navy was on its way to the island but could not establish its territory as they saw Indian flags waving on the island. Sardar Patel had sent an SOS message to Mudaliar brothers to convey the collector of Travancore to instruct the police officials and the employees to go to Lakshadweep with whatever arms were with them. His instruction was to take possession of the islands closer to the border and hoist the national flag there. “If the police forces no firearms with them, they can take lathis with them but somehow take possession of the area.”

He added, “Sardar Patel was farsighted. The Pak dream to capture Lakshadweep was shattered after they watch the Indian National Flag and preferred to take U-turn. The incident took place immediately after India got independence in 1947.”

Badminton player PV Sindhu said amid Maldives row, “I have travelled around the world, but the beauty of Lakshadweep is unmatched. Saw the serene sights of the blue waters and the white beaches in the posts of PM Sir . I must plan a visit soon with my family. All of us are big fans of the sea. #ExploreIndianIslands.”

Actor Varun Dhawan praises PM Modi saying on X, “Seeing our honourable prime minister@narendramodi sir at the beaches in Lakshadweep makes me realise Iv been missing out on our pristine beaches and water Can’t wait to book my next holiday #ExploreIndianIslands.”

Shilpa Shetty said in a post on X, “Lakshadweep's unparalleled beauty has earned a top spot on my Travel List! Crystal-clear waters and tranquil shores await, promising an unforgettable escape.”

On Maldives minister's remarks on PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep, Lakshadweep MP Mohammad Faizal said, “Why should Maldives say something about what is going to happen in Lakshadweep and what PM Modi spoke on the future of tourism in Lakshadweep. One thing is sure that Lakshadweep is going to be a new destination which is still to be explored. PM Modi came to Lakshadweep and stayed for a day and he said something which the people of Lakshadweep always wanted to have on tourism perspective. I always wanted this government to have a policy for tourism because that will definitely generate employment opportunities for youngsters.Why should the Maldives have a problem with that?”

China and the Maldives will sign several agreements following talks between Xi Jinping and Mohamed Muizzu this week. Xi Jinping will host a welcome ceremony and a welcome banquet for Mohamed Muizzu during his state visit from January 8-12, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said.

The two heads of state will hold talks and attend the signing ceremony of cooperation documents.

Kunal Bahl said, “#Maldives is overrated and unnecessarily ultra expensive. There. I said it,” adding, “#Lakshadweep has the chance to build more similar supply in the region and make it more accessible for a broader audience.”

PM Modi was in Lakshadweep on January 2 and 3 to inaugurate several projects. During his visit, PM Modi went snorkelling to explore undersea life. He posted pictures of his undersea exploration and early morning walks on the pristine beaches saying, “For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list. During my stay, I also tried snorkelling - what an exhilarating experience it was.”

Maldives new president Mohamed Muizzu is seen to be close to China. After taking charge of the top office, he called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives.

Former Maldives sports minister Ahmed Mahloof expressed concern over the row saying, “I am deeply worried about the escalating situation regarding the comments about our closest neighbour. Indians boycotting the Maldives would have a huge impact on our economy. It would be hard for us to recover from such a campaign. I call on the government to swiftly take serious action to solve the issue as soon as possible.”

#ExploreIndianIslands is the second largest trending hashtag in India on X. Some Indians also shared screenshots of cancelled bookings of Maldives holidays.

Maldives is India’s key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The island nation also occupies a special place in its initiatives like ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region). Maldives is also a focus for the PM Modi government under the ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’.

Maldives National Party in a post on X wrote that it “condemns racist and derogatory comments made by a government official” against a foreign leader.

“This is unacceptable. We urge the government to take necessary action against those involved,” it added.

In a statement, Maldives government said, “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.”

Following Maldives minister's comment on PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit, BJP leader Nalin S Kohli said, “PM Modi had a wonderful visit to Lakshadweep, which has sparked enthusiasm across the country. Many people are now expressing their desire to visit Lakshadweep.”

On Maldives row, former Vice President of Maldives Ahmed Adeeb said, "It is a very sad incident which should not have happened. When you are in an elected position, you should not engage as an activist. One has to be more responsible and also these degraded remarks towards the global leader Prime Minister Modi are not acceptable. We build our tourism on the basis of tolerance, harmony, friendship and hospitality. This is not acceptable on any level."

See our webstory on Lakshadweep here

Looking for an unusual holiday? Head to Lakshadweep that is a haven for adventure lovers and tourists seeking an unforgettable getaway. Read here

Director Madhur Bhandarkar said in a post on X, “Discovering the enchanting allure of #Lakshadweep through Prime Minister @narendramodi's recent visit has left me utterly spellbound! Adding this hidden gem to the top of my travel wishlist. 👌🙌 #Lakshadweep.”

Actor Pooja Hegde said, “Cant wait to take a holiday and dive into the vibrant culture of Lakshadweep! A destination that not only captures the eyes but also the heart ❤️ #ExploreIndianIslands.”

Maldives suspended three ministers following remarks over PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit. The ministers who have been suspended are: Maryam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef and Mahzoom Majid.

Bollywood actor Bhumi Pednekar said amid Maldives row, “India has some of the most vibrant coasts, best beaches, hospitality & food. Next on my bucket list - The #Lakshadweep Islands :) #ExploreIndianIslands.”