Why is Maldives trending on Twitter?

Social media is a big source of arguments, being the quickest source to share information worldwide. A single picture, especially if posted by someone important, can cause chaos between countries.

Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, posted about his recent trip to Lakshadweep on X (former Twitter).

“In addition to the scenic beauty, Lakshadweep’s tranquility is also mesmerising. It gave me an opportunity to reflect on how to work even harder for the welfare of 140 crore Indians,” the caption read.

In addition to the scenic beauty, Lakshadweep's tranquility is also mesmerising. It gave me an opportunity to reflect on how to work even harder for the welfare of 140 crore Indians. pic.twitter.com/VeQi6gmjIM

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 4, 2024

Social media erupted with calls for boycott of Maldives tours after Maldivian politician Zahid Rameez made objectionable remarks regarding Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep.

The incident led to the trending of the hashtag #BoycottMaldives on X in India.

The controversy unfolded when Rameez, a member of the Progressive Party, responded to a claim suggesting that PM Modi’s visit was a setback for the Maldives and would boost tourism in Lakshadweep.

Rameez mocked Indians, stating that competing with the Maldives for tourism was “delusional.” He questioned how India could match the level of service and cleanliness offered by the island nation, adding that the permanent smell in Indian rooms would be a significant drawback.

Rameez’s remarks ignited a heated exchange on the microblogging site, with many users sharply criticizing him.

Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment Maldives, Abdulla Mahzoom Majid, also criticised Modi and said, “While I wish success for India’s tourism, targeting the Maldives so explicitly isn’t diplomatic. India faces significant challenges competing in beach tourism, considering our resort infrastructure exceeds their total islands. Plus this is your culture @narendramodi.”

Subsequently, the hashtag #BoycottMaldives gained traction on social media, with influencers joining the call for a boycott.

Adding fuel to the fire, Maldivian minister Mariyam Shiuna also made derogatory comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a now-deleted post, further fueling the outrage.

Former President Nasheed urged the Maldivian government to distance itself from the offensive comments made by Shiuna and provide clear assurance to India that they do not reflect official government policy.

“What appalling language by Maldives Government official @shiuna_m towards the leader of a key ally, that is instrumental for Maldives’ security and prosperity. @MMuizzu gov must distance itself from these comments and give clear assurance to India they do not reflect gov policy.”

What appalling language by Maldives Government official @shiuna_m towards the leader of a key ally, that is instrumental for Maldives’ security and prosperity. @MMuizzu gov must distance itself from these comments and give clear assurance to India they do not reflect gov policy.

— Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) January 7, 2024

In response to the growing calls for a boycott, several Indian celebrities, including Akshay Kumar and Sachin Tendulkar, took to social media.

Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists.
We are good to our neighbors but
why should we tolerate such… pic.twitter.com/DXRqkQFguN

— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) January 7, 2024

250+ days since we rang in my 50th birthday in Sindhudurg!

The coastal town offered everything we wanted, and more. Gorgeous locations combined with wonderful hospitality left us with a treasure trove of memories.

India is blessed with beautiful coastlines and pristine… pic.twitter.com/DUCM0NmNCz

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 7, 2024

They promoted the hashtag ‘#ExploreIndianIslands,’ encouraging fellow citizens to support domestic tourism.

Former Indian cricketer Akash Chopra urged Indians to choose wisely in light of the political tensions, emphasizing the importance of national dignity.

‘India Out’ was a part of the manifesto. Maldives voted for it.
Now, it’s up to us, Indians, to choose wisely. I know that my family will.
Jai Hind 🇮🇳

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) January 6, 2024

It is so cool to see our Hon PM Narendrabhai Modi at the beautiful clean n stunning beaches of Lakshadweep, and the best part is that yeh hamare India mein hain.

— Salman Khan (@BeingSalmanKhan) January 7, 2024

Discovering the enchanting allure of #Lakshadweep through Prime Minister @narendramodi's recent visit has left me utterly spellbound! Adding this hidden gem to the top of my travel wishlist. 👌🙌 #Lakshadweep pic.twitter.com/uZfhroAFov

— Madhur Bhandarkar (@imbhandarkar) January 7, 2024

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, Moosa Zameer, said, “The recent remarks against foreign leaders and our close neighbours are unacceptable and do not reflect the official position of the Government of #Maldives. We remain committed to fostering a positive and constructive dialogue with all our partners, especially our neighbours, based on mutual respect and understanding.”

The recent remarks against foreign leaders and our close neighbours are unacceptable and do not reflect the official position of the Government of #Maldives.

We remain committed to fostering a positive and constructive dialogue with all our partners, especially our neighbours,…

— Moosa Zameer (@MoosaZameer) January 7, 2024

As the controversy continues to unfold, diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives face a test, with the tourism industry caught in the crossfire of political tensions.