Maldives Teen Dies as President Allegedly Denies Approval for Indian Plane: Reports

Male: In a heartbreaking incident in the Maldives, a 14-year-old boy lost his life on Saturday, allegedly due to delayed approval from President Mohammed Muizzu for the use of an Indian-provided Dornier aircraft for his emergency airlift. The teenager, battling a brain tumour and recovering from a stroke, urgently needed an air ambulance to transfer him from Gaaf Alif Villingili to the capital city, Male.

The family claims that despite their immediate request to Island Aviation for assistance, their calls went unanswered until 8:30 am on Thursday. Expressing their frustration, the boy’s father emphasized the need for air ambulances in critical cases. However, the boy was eventually transported to Male 16 hours after the emergency evacuation plea.

Aasandha Company Limited, responsible for handling the evacuation request, stated that they initiated the process promptly. Unfortunately, a last-minute technical glitch with the flight prevented the planned diversion, leading to a tragic outcome.

This incident unfolds against the backdrop of strained diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives, exacerbated by derogatory comments from Maldivian ministers directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Maldives MP Meekail Naseem commented on the situation, stating, “People shouldn’t have to pay with their lives to satisfy the President’s animosity towards India.”