Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed denounces Minister's insults against PM Modi as 'appalling'

Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed expressed strong disapproval of comments made by Maldives' deputy minister of Youth Empowerment, Mariyam Shiuna, against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his recent visit to Lakshadweep. Nasheed, referring to India as a "key ally" for the security and prosperity of the Maldives, labeled Shiuna's remarks as "appalling" and urged President Mohamed Muizzu and his government to distance themselves from such statements. Nasheed emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with India.

Shiuna had referred to PM Modi as a "clown" and "puppet" in a now-deleted X post, causing a backlash. Another minister, Zahid Rameez, also mocked PM Modi, questioning the competition between the Maldives and Lakshadweep and criticizing the latter's ability to match the services offered. The verbal spat prompted an online campaign led by Indian celebrities and influencers, including Aakash Chopra and Sonam Mahajan, calling for a boycott of the Maldives and its tourist spots. The tensions arose from PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep, where he inaugurated several development projects and shared his experience with snorkeling.