Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the dreamy islands in Southern India, Lakshadweep. From his visit there, he posted several photos on Twitter (X.com) showcasing the beauty of the island. While he mentioned how the government is working towards promoting tourism there, he wrote a caption “For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list.”
In addition to the scenic beauty, Lakshadweep's tranquility is also mesmerising. It gave me an opportunity to reflect on how to work even harder for the welfare of 140 crore Indians. pic.twitter.com/VeQi6gmjIM
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 4, 2024
This harmless thread of tweets led to a rather magnificent controversy when three ministers from the Maldives wrote derogatory comments about India and PM Modi.
What Is Going On Between India And Maldives?
Image courtesy: PTI
The largest number of international tourists in Maldives are from India. According to statistics, more than two lakh Indians visited the country in 2023. Despite such friendly relationships, three ministers of the Maldives government passed negative comments about the subcontinent and its leader.
These ministers posted the comments on PM Modi’s tweet on Lakshadweep. They wrote how the hotels in India lack sanitation and the bathrooms smell. They also said belittling things about the Prime Minister. The Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Mariyam Shiuna, called PM Modi a “clown” and “puppet”.
How Are Akshay Kumar And Others Boycotting Maldives?
Ever since the incident took place, #BoycottMaldives has been trending on Twitter. Many Indian celebrities and influencers like Akshay Kumar are talking about not tolerating hate. Celebrities including John Abraham, Sachin Tendulkar, Kartik Aaryan, and Salman Khan are also joining the Twitter trend #ExploreIndianIslands under which they are promoting touring the islands of India instead of visiting Maldives.
Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists.
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) January 7, 2024
We are good to our neighbors but
why should we tolerate such… pic.twitter.com/DXRqkQFguN
It is so cool to see our Hon PM Narendrabhai Modi at the beautiful clean n stunning beaches of Lakshadweep, and the best part is that yeh hamare India mein hain.
— Salman Khan (@BeingSalmanKhan) January 7, 2024
250+ days since we rang in my 50th birthday in Sindhudurg!
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 7, 2024
The coastal town offered everything we wanted, and more. Gorgeous locations combined with wonderful hospitality left us with a treasure trove of memories.
India is blessed with beautiful coastlines and pristine… pic.twitter.com/DUCM0NmNCz
With the amazing Indian hospitality, the idea of “Atithi Devo Bhava” and a vast marine life to explore. Lakshwadeep is the place to go.#exploreindianislandspic.twitter.com/CA1d9r0QZ5
— John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) January 7, 2024
Don't Miss: From Blockbusters To Backlash: The Crippling Effect Of Boycott Culture On Bollywood
Maldives Government Takes A Stand
Image courtesy: Facebook
Following this controversial incident, the Maldives government released a statement where they expressed their apology and honoured the long-term friendship between both countries. The statement read, "These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives. 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 its international partners."
Further, the Maldivian Government has suspended the ministers who have passed these comments to extend their apology to India and PM Modi.
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