Shiuna had referred to Indian PM Narendra Modi as a "puppet of Israel".
On January 7, 2024, the Maldives government took action by suspending three deputy ministers who had made derogatory comments on social media about India and its leadership.
The government distanced itself from these remarks and emphasised the importance of officials refraining from actions that could adversely impact relationships with international partners.
The dispute unfolded when Zahid Rameez, a leader of the Progressive Party of Maldives within the government, and deputy minister Mariyam Shiuna responded to social media posts comparing Lakshadweep to the Maldives as a tourist destination.
Ibrahim Khaleel, spokesperson for the president of Maldives, said:
“All government officials responsible for the comments have been suspended from their post effective immediately.”
Although the officials were not named, they were identified as Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid.
Reportedly, India has expressed its concerns over the insulting remarks to the Maldives.
The dispute comes at a time when President Mohamed Muizzu, who is perceived to be pro-China, has called on India to withdraw 77 military personnel posted in the Indian Ocean archipelago to operate two helicopters and an aircraft.
Zahid Rameez said the idea of Lakshadweep being compared to the Maldives is “delusional”.
He added: “How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean?
“The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall.”
In a now-deleted tweet, Shiuna had referred to Indian PM Narendra Modi as a “puppet of Israel”.
She also opposed what she described as India’s “military presence” in the Maldives.
Similar posts were made by Malsha Shareef and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid.
The Maldivian foreign ministry had previously stated that the government is aware of “derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals”.
Without directly referring to India, the statement added:
“These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives.”
The statement also said it “believes that the freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, and in ways that do not spread hatred, negativity, and hinder close relationships between the Maldives and its international partners.
“Moreover, the relevant authorities of the Government will not hesitate to take action against those who make such derogatory remarks.”
After visiting Lakshadweep, Mr Modi highlighted the islands’ “stunning beauty” and the “incredible warmth” of its people.
This sparked several social media posts that urged Indians to visit Lakshadweep instead of the Maldives.
Muizzu had recently announced that he would visit China before travelling to India.
New Delhi is usually the first port of call for Maldivian presidents but Turkey was the first country to which Muizzu made a bilateral visit.
Other Maldivian leaders criticised the comments made by the deputy ministers.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed referred to the “appalling language” used by Shiuna “towards the leader of a key ally that is instrumental for Maldives’ security and prosperity”.
Ex-Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid said the derogatory remarks are “reprehensible and odious”.
He added: “India is a time-tested friend and an unwavering ally.
“They have historically been the first to respond in our time of need. Our close relationship has been bound by mutual respect, history, culture and strong people-to-people relations.”
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