Tensions Rise Between India and Maldives as 43 Indians Deported, More Trouble Brewing

Tensions between the Maldives and India have been escalating since President Mohammad Muijzoo won the election last year. Relations between the island nation and India have been deteriorating as Muijzoo issued an ultimatum for the Indian military to leave the Maldives. Slowly moving away from India, the Maldives is inching closer to China.

Recently, Muijzoo undertook a trip to China where he signed 20 agreements, including tourism-related deals. Amid ongoing tensions with India, the Maldives has taken a significant step by deciding to deport 43 Indian nationals, among a total of 186 foreigners, over allegations of visa violations and drug-related crimes.

Concerns are being raised after the deportation of Indian citizens that the relationship between India and the Maldives could further deteriorate. According to a report by Malé’s online news agency ‘Adhadhu’, the highest number of deportees are Bangladeshis, followed by 43 Indians, 25 Sri Lankans, and 8 Nepalese.

Maldives’ Home Minister Ali Ihushan stated during a press conference that the ministry is collaborating with the Finance Ministry to take action against illegal activities. He mentioned that the Home Ministry is working on deporting foreign individuals involved in such activities and has already deported 186 foreign nationals engaged in criminal activities.