Farooq Abdullah links India-Maldives tension to Hindu-Muslim discord amid China’s influence

National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah suggested on Tuesday that the diplomatic strife between India and the Maldives, triggered by derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, could be attributed to the ‘rising hatred between Hindus and Muslims in India.’

Abdullah added that China’s growing influence in neighboring countries, including Pakistan and Nepal, is a contributing factor. He highlighted India’s efforts to address these issues through dialogue. “India has always assisted the Maldives…I don’t understand the reason behind this controversy today. Is it due to the increasing discord between Hindus and Muslims in India?…China’s influence is growing not only there but also in Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh…India is trying to resolve matters through dialogue,” said Abdullah.

Various opposition leaders responded to the diplomatic clash between India and the Maldives, sparked by derogatory remarks by Maldivian leaders Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized PM Modi for taking everything ‘personally’ since coming to power in 2014. NCP Chief Sharad Pawar, however, supported PM Modi, emphasizing respect for the prime minister’s post.

The derogatory remarks triggered a significant backlash, with Indian celebrities joining a #boycottmaldives campaign. India raised the issue with Male, leading to the suspension of the three deputy ministers responsible for the offensive social media posts. Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed condemned the comments, while parliamentary minority leader Ali Azim called for the removal of President Mohamed Muizzu.

Rejecting the derogatory remarks, the Maldives government clarified that they did not represent the views of Male. During his visit to Lakshadweep on January 2, PM Modi inaugurated several development projects worth over Rs 1,150 crore.