January, 07, 2024: Tensions are simmering between India and the Maldives after online comments from some Maldivian netizens, including a government minister, disparaged India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Lakshadweep. This has triggered a social media campaign in India calling for a boycott of the Maldives, raising concerns for the island nation’s tourism-dependent economy.
Modi’s Lakshadweep visit aimed to promote tourism in the Indian islands, garnering significant interest with breathtaking photos of the Prime Minister snorkeling going viral. However, the visit seemingly rubbed some in the Maldives the wrong way, leading to inflammatory online posts. Maldivian Minister Mariyam Shiuna’s now-deleted criticism and promotion of Maldives tourism with the #VisitMaldives hashtag sparked outrage. Racist and offensive comments against Indians by other Maldivian netizens further fueled the fire.
For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 4, 2024
During my stay, I also tried snorkelling – what an exhilarating experience it was! pic.twitter.com/rikUTGlFN7
Indian celebrities and influencers are now rallying behind a “BoycottMaldives” campaign, urging Indians to reconsider their travel plans to the island paradise. Former cricketer Aakash Chopra and social media influencer Sonam Mahajan are among the prominent voices advocating for Lakshadweep instead.
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
Mariyam Shiuna, a Deputy Minister in the Maldives govt, posted this insulting comment against PM Modi.
— 🦋Anjna🦋🇮🇳 (@SaffronQueen_) January 6, 2024
In her position mocking a democratically elected PM of a nation that has always helped the Maldives is beyond shameful.
Give her a befitting reply India by not holidaying in… pic.twitter.com/4Vj9VGbUjG
‘India Out’ was a part of the manifesto. Maldives voted for it.
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) January 6, 2024
Now, it’s up to us, Indians, to choose wisely. I know that my family will.
Jai Hind 🇮🇳
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.#exploreindianislands pic.twitter.com/CA1d9r0QZ5
— John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) January 7, 2024
With the amazing Indian hospitality, the idea of “Atithi Devo Bhava” and a vast marine life to explore. Lakshwadeep is the place to go.#exploreindianislands pic.twitter.com/CA1d9r0QZ5
— John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) January 7, 2024
The campaign has gained significant traction, with the hashtag trending on social media platforms. This development poses a potential threat to the Maldives’ $6 billion GDP, heavily reliant on tourism with Indian visitors accounting for a substantial portion of arrivals.
While the situation remains fluid, it’s crucial to remember that online discourse can often be amplified and sensationalized. Responsible dialogue and understanding between both nations are necessary to navigate this delicate situation. Moving forward, respectful communication and addressing underlying concerns constructively will be key to mitigating tensions and preserving the strong ties between India and the Maldives.
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