Former Maldives President Condemns Officials’ Derogatory Remarks Against PM Modi

Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed has strongly criticized derogatory remarks made by the country’s Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Mariyam Shiuna, against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Nasheed condemned the “appalling language” used by Shiuna and emphasized India’s role as a “key ally” for the security and prosperity of the Maldives.

Nasheed urged the Mohamed Muizzu government to distance itself from Shiuna’s comments and provide a clear assurance to India that they do not reflect government policy. Shiuna had referred to Prime Minister Modi as a “clown” and “puppet” in now-deleted posts on social media, which were later taken down due to backlash.

In addition to Shiuna, other Maldives officials, including Minister Zahid Rameez, mocked PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep, drawing attention on social media. Rameez claimed that Modi’s move would be a “big setback” for the Maldives but asserted that competing with the Maldives was “delusional.” Rameez also questioned the cleanliness and service quality of Lakshadweep, inviting sharp criticism and calls to “boycott the Maldives.”