New Delhi: In the wake of a strong backlash on social media, Maldives swiftly took action on Sunday, suspending two ministers for making derogatory remarks against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment Mariyam Shiuna and Deputy Minister of Transport & Civil Hassan Zihan faced suspension following India’s expression of concern over the matter.
The controversy erupted when Shiuna used social media platform X to refer to Modi as a “clown” and “puppet.” The derogatory posts were made in response to Modi’s picturesque images from his visit to Lakshadweep, where he promoted the island as a tourist destination.
The offensive posts triggered a widespread backlash on social media, with the hashtag #BoycottMaldives gaining traction. The ministers eventually took down the tweets. Tensions between India and Maldives escalated further when a Maldives minister accused India of targeting the nation and questioned its competitiveness in beach tourism.
In response to the diplomatic row, prominent Indian celebrities have taken to social media to express solidarity with Lakshadweep and encourage citizens to explore the islands’ beauty. Indians are urging fellow citizens to explore the enchanting Lakshadweep islands surrounded by the sea, offering breathtaking views. Many Indian tourists have also started cancelling their trip plans to Maldives and cancelling booking.
Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar expressed his astonishment at the derogatory comments from Maldives public figures on X.
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.
We are good to our neighbors but
why should we tolerate such… pic.twitter.com/DXRqkQFguN— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) January 7, 2024
Actress Shraddha Kapoor also shared that she is interested to explore Lakshadweep islands. She wrote-
All these images and memes making me super FOMO now 😍
Lakshadweep has such pristine beaches and coastlines, thriving local culture, I’m on the verge of booking an impulse chhutti ❤️
This year, why not #ExploreIndianIslands pic.twitter.com/fTWmZTycpO— Shraddha (@ShraddhaKapoor) January 7, 2024
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