National Desk, 7th January: India has officially communicated its concerns to the Maldives government regarding the derogatory remarks made by Maldivian minister Mariyam Shiuna against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shiuna, Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, referred to PM Modi as a “clown” and “puppet” in now-deleted posts on X, triggering a diplomatic row. The Indian High Commissioner has raised the matter with the Maldivian government.
Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed condemned Shiuna’s language as “appalling” and emphasized India’s significance as a key ally for the Maldives’ security and prosperity. Despite backlash, Shiuna repeated derogatory remarks against PM Modi in subsequent social media interactions.
Other Maldivian officials, including MP Zahid Rameez, mocked PM Modi’s Lakshadweep visit, comparing it to the Maldives. The Maldivian government, in a statement, disassociated itself from the derogatory remarks, emphasizing that they don’t represent official views. Authorities stated they won’t hesitate to take action against those making such remarks against PM Modi.