“Maldives Crossroads: President Muizzu’s Anti-India Stand and Its Impact”
In recent developments, the Maldives has witnessed a diplomatic strain between India and the island nation, with President Mohammed Muizzu’s visit to China and the controversial actions of three junior ministers. The situation has escalated tensions, prompting India to express its concerns through a verbal demarche to Maldives envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb.
The three junior ministers, who were suspended for making derogatory comments about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seem to have had the President’s backing before his fundraising trip to China. This has raised eyebrows in diplomatic circles, with speculation that Beijing might provide financial aid through the Chinese Exim Bank to Male for infrastructure projects.
President Muizzu’s apparent anti-India stance has been evident since taking office, starting with his visit to Turkey and securing a USD 200 million loan from UAE-Saudi Arabia during his attendance at COP28 in Dubai. His recent trip to Beijing has further strained relations with India.
Notably, President Muizzu has made a controversial request to replace unarmed Indian Air Force and Navy crews, currently operating two ALH helicopters and one offshore patrol vessel, with civilian crews. Despite there being no armed Indian troops deployed in the Maldives, Muizzu has attempted to portray the previous government’s permission for Indian troop deployment, a claim that India refutes.
As the political dynamics unfold, Male is expected to adopt a tougher stance against India until the Majlis election in April 2024. President Muizzu’s strategy to play the anti-India card is seen as an attempt to garner financial support from countries adversarial to India. However, India has made it clear that the responsibility to repair bilateral ties lies with Male.
The situation echoes past instances where countries played the anti-India card, leading to economic repercussions. Sri Lanka’s similar approach resulted in economic challenges, and there is a concern that the Maldives could face a similar fate if diplomatic relations continue to deteriorate.
In conclusion, the evolving political landscape in the Maldives raises concerns over the strained relationship with India. President Muizzu’s anti-India rhetoric and strategic engagements with other nations may have long-term consequences for the Maldives, echoing cautionary tales from the region’s recent history.
