Maldives Leaders Remarks Row: Prime Minister to promote Lakshadweep as a tourist destination Narendra Modi A major controversy has erupted when some leaders, including Maldivian Minister Mariam Shiuna and leader Zahid Rameez, made derogatory remarks while making fun of the effort.
Many Indians and celebrities on social media have called for boycotting Maldives. On Sunday (January 7), the Maldives government distanced itself from the derogatory comments made by the leaders and said that their views are personal and do not represent the views of the government.
The Maldives government said that freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner and statements should not be made that spread hatred and negativity.
The Maldives government also said in a statement that it will not hesitate to take action against those who make such derogatory remarks. At the same time, by Sunday evening, the Maldives government suspended its three ministers Mariam Shiuna, Malsha and Hassan Jihan for making derogatory remarks on PM Modi.
Who is Mariam Shiuna?
Mariam Shiuna is a current minister in the Maldives government. She serves as the Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts of Maldives. Shiuna is also the spokesperson of Male City Council. Shiuna had called PM Modi a ‘clone’ and ‘puppet’ regarding his recent visit to Lakshadweep. As the controversy escalated, Shiuna deleted her post on social media platform X.
Who is Zahid Rameez?
Zahid Rameez has been a member of the Progressive Party of the Maldives Senate since January 2013. According to his LinkedIn bio, Rameez has graduated from Unity University College. Rameez reportedly has a strong business background. He has experience in the food and beverage industry. According to Zahid’s LinkedIn bio, he is skilled in management, business, development, marketing strategy, troubleshooting and advertising.
Commenting on PM Modi’s recent visit to Lakshadweep, Zahid Rameez in a post on social media asked whether India can provide better services than Maldives?
