The Maldives is encountering a potential tourism boycott from one of its major revenue sources following the actions of three officials who ridiculed India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This has prompted calls from Indian citizens and celebrities to opt for domestic beaches over sun-kissed destination.

The controversy unfolded when Modi shared pictures on the social platform X, showcasing himself snorkeling and strolling along the beach in Lakshadweep. This is a southern Indian island chain situated in the Laccadive Sea, off the coast of Kerala.

Amid a deepening diplomatic dispute, enraged Indians are potentially canceling their trips to the Maldives. Numerous reports and social media posts suggest that a significant number have abandoned their holiday plans in response to 'Hinduphobic' comments made by a Maldives minister against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The hashtag 'BoycottMaldives' has surged in popularity, emerging as a prominent trend on social media in India. Many individuals from India assert that they have decided against vacationing in the Maldives due to the perceived 'hateful' remarks directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In response to his post, three Maldives officials referred to Modi as a "clown," "terrorist," and a "puppet of Israel," as reported by Reuters. Swift action was taken by the Maldives government to disassociate itself from these remarks, leading to the suspension of the three officials. The individuals in question held positions as deputy ministers within the Ministry of Youth Employment, Information, and Arts, as confirmed by a senior Maldives official on Sunday, January 7th.

Mariyam Shiuna, the Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, is purported to have made offensive comments about PM Modi on Twitter following the dissemination of his Lakshadweep images. In these remarks, the Deputy Minister referred to the Indian Prime Minister as a 'clown' and a 'puppet of Israel.'

In an official statement, the Maldives government acknowledged the existence of "derogatory" comments on social media but emphasized that these "opinions are personal" and do not reflect the government's stance.

The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) vehemently condemns the derogatory remarks made by certain deputy ministers on social media platforms against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, shortly after his visit to Lakshadweep. MATI emphasized that India has consistently acted as a "first responder" during various crises throughout the history of the Maldives.

The tourism industry further acknowledged that India has been a continual and substantial supporter of the Maldives' tourism sector. India has played a crucial role in aiding the Maldives in its recovery efforts post-COVID-19, especially after the reopening of borders. Since then, India has consistently remained among the leading markets for the Maldives.