India slams offensive comments against PM Modi by Maldives minister

India expressed alarm on Sunday at the recent “derogatory” comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Mariyam Shiuna, the deputy minister of youth empowerment in the Maldives.

The Maldivian administration has reportedly been contacted by the Indian High Commissioner in Male. This happened as the administration of Maldives President Muhammad Muizzu disassociated itself from the statements made by several of its ministers.

Fearing a diplomatic backlash, the Maldivian government said in a statement that it was aware of disparaging comments made on social media against foreign dignitaries and high-ranking officials, but that these comments did not necessarily reflect the government’s position.

“The government believes that the freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, and in ways that do not spread hatred, negativity, and hinder close relationships between the Maldives and international partners,” the Maldives government said in a statement.

“The relevant authorities of the government will not hesitate to take action against those who make such derogatory remarks,” the statement added.

The government led by President Mohamed Muizzu suspended the three Maldivian ministers on Sunday, one day after they made disparaging remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India on social media.

Malsha, Hassan Zihan, and Mariyam Shiuna are the Maldives who have been suspended.

PM Modi’s visit to the Lakshadweep islands and his promotion of the tourism sector in the union territory have evoked a sharp reaction in the Maldives. Several Maldives ministers even claimed that Indian beaches could not meet the cleanliness level of the Maldives beaches.