Maldivian Ministers Resign Ahead of President Muizzu's Visit to India

Two Maldivian junior ministers, suspended for derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have resigned ahead of President Mohamed Muizzu's scheduled visit to New Delhi. The comments previously strained relations between the countries, but diplomatic efforts have since aimed to repair ties.

In a recent development, two junior ministers from the Maldivian government have resigned ahead of President Mohamed Muizzu's anticipated visit to New Delhi, as confirmed by an official on Wednesday. The ministers, Malsha Shareef and Mariyam Shiuna, were earlier suspended for derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Back in January, Shareef and Shiuna, along with fellow minister Abdulla Mahzoom Majid, referred to Modi as a 'clown,' 'terrorist,' and 'puppet of Israel' on the social media platform X. The comments were made in reaction to Modi's promotion of tourism in Lakshadweep, seen as a signal to Muizzu—a pro-China leader—who has pledged to end Maldives' 'India first' policy.

This incident had angered New Delhi and led to a social media campaign by Indian celebrities to promote local tourism, affecting Indian tourist arrivals in the Maldives. While Muizzu's office has yet to comment, the president's spokesperson indicated that Muizzu plans an official visit to India soon, his first since assuming office.

Relations between the Maldives and India were strained after Muizzu demanded the replacement of 80 Indian defense personnel in April, part of his 'India out' campaign. India complied in May, and subsequent diplomatic efforts have been underway to mend the bilateral ties.

(With inputs from agencies.)