Lakshadweep vs Maldives Controversy
The islands of Maldives have been synonymous with picture-perfect beaches and luxurious water villas for decades. However, beyond tourism brochures lies complex socio-political undercurrents that influence its dynamics with regional powers like India.
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A recent social media controversy involving Indian PM Narendra Modi triggered unexpected diplomatic tensions between the two countries in January 2023. But what seemed like an overreaction over harmless Instagram posts hints at deeper ideological battles for power within the island nation.
Origins of India-Maldives Bonhomie
With just about 5 lakh inhabitants, the poorly-equipped Maldives relies heavily on regional allies like India when it comes to national security. India’s first intervention came in 1988 when it helped the authoritarian government quell a coup attempt by Tamil mercenaries.
Bilateral ties improved significantly after Maldives transitioned to democracy in 2008. India assisted the young republic in drafting its new constitution. It also set up police infrastructure, provided patrol boats, and helicopters to strengthen maritime security. The 2009 request for an Indian radar system was a major milestone as it expanded India’s military footprint. Over the next few years, defence partnerships strengthened.
Beginning of Anti-India Sentiments
However, the 2013 elections brought an ideological shift. The new government pivoted towards China and even asked India to take back gifted helicopters in 2016. Infrastructural contracts were awarded to Chinese firms and Maldives also joined the Belt & Road Initiative much to India’s concern.
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By 2018, debt levels ballooned to a point where Maldives couldn’t service loans. After the opposition united to dethrone the China-backed regime, ties with India improved again. But calls for removing Indian military presence grew louder from 2022 as opposition parties attacked the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party for compromising sovereignty.
Matters came to a head recently when newly elected President Mohammad Mujuthaba announced plans to scrap all traces of Indian military presence in a bid to score domestic political points.
The Toxic Injection of Identity Politics
On the surface, this U-turn showcases petty politicking and opportunism. However, it ties down to a deeper ideological battle between opposing views of nationalism and India’s role in it.
Political parties like PPM have successfully injected identity politics into their propaganda over time. By portraying India as an invasive outsider encroaching on cultural icons like language and religion, they instill fears of assimilation and fuel Sinophile sentiments.
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Furthermore, nationalism anchored in religion sidelines growing concerns over Chinese debt traps and ecological destruction from massive infrastructure projects. Voters ignore long-term economic stability in their quest for perceived progressiveness. Hence parties opposing Indian presence get rewarded despite dangerous consequences of increased Chinese leverage.
Conclusion: The Volatile Future
In conclusion, domestic politics will continue to dominate India-Maldives relations as conflicting views of nationalism battle for electoral power. While Indian presence may seem less tolerated now, strengthening people-to-people ties can bring longer-term balance.
The biggest takeaway is the perils of weaponizing identity politics and blinded nationalism that undermine national interests. The turbulent present must not cloud potential opportunities in the future.
FAQs About Controversy
When did India and Maldives establish diplomatic relations?
India and Maldives established diplomatic relations in 1972. India was among the first to recognize Maldives after its independence.
Why does Maldives want India out?
Some political parties in Maldives use anti-India rhetoric to appeal to nationalist and religious voter bases. They portray Indian presence as a threat to sovereignty and cultural identity.
Who was the Maldivian president in 2023?
In November 2023, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih of the Maldivian Democratic Party lost a hotly contested election to Mohammed Mujuthaba of the Progressive Party of Maldivs (PPM)
What is the Belt and Road initiative of China?
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is China’s multi-billion dollar project to build infrastructure and transit corridors connecting China to Asia, Africa and Europe through land and maritime routes.
How much influence does China have in Maldives?
China wields financial influence over Maldives in the form of loans, credits and FDI. Under debt distress, Maldives may have to lease islands or cede control of infrastructure to Chinese firms.
This is all about the controversy between India and Maldivs or we can say Lakshadweep and Maldivs.
