Traders Body CAIT Calls for Boycott of Maldives Amid Diplomatic Row

Amid the ongoing diplomatic row between India and the Maldives, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has called upon domestic traders and exporters to refrain from conducting business dealings with the island nation. This call to boycott is in response to the offensive comments targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi made by several ministers of the Maldives, which have been deemed unacceptable by the business community.

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CAIT Secretary General's Statement

CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal expressed the business community's disapproval of the disrespectful behaviour towards Prime Minister Modi. He emphasized the need for mutual respect in diplomatic discourse and condemned any form of disrespect towards the leaders of friendly nations. Khandelwal urged traders and exporters to stand united in sending a strong message against such behaviour by temporarily abstaining from trade engagements with the Maldives.

Maldivian Envoy Summoned

In response to the offensive social media posts, the Maldivian envoy to India was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday. The Indian government conveyed strong concern over the remarks made by the Maldivian ministers, which have caused significant displeasure in India.

Suspension of Maldivian Deputy Ministers

The government of the Maldives took action by suspending three deputy ministers for their derogatory social media posts against Prime Minister Modi. The suspended deputy ministers are Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid, all from the youth ministry. Their posts criticized the prime minister's visit to Lakshadweep and implied that it was an attempt to promote the Union Territory as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives.

Indian High Commission's Response

The Indian High Commission in Malé strongly raised the matter with the Maldivian foreign ministry on Sunday, expressing India's deep concern over the disparaging remarks made by the ministers. The Indian government has sought an appropriate response from the Maldives to address the issue.

Impact on Tourism

The controversy has also had an impact on tourism, with many celebrities in India urging people to explore domestic tourist destinations instead of going to the Maldives. This has led to a decline in bookings and cancellations of trips to the Maldives by Indian tourists.

The diplomatic row between India and the Maldives has escalated due to the offensive remarks made by Maldivian ministers targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The call for a boycott by the traders' body CAIT reflects the business community's disapproval of such behaviour and their solidarity with the government's stance. The suspension of the deputy ministers and the Indian government's strong reaction indicate the seriousness with which the matter is being handled. It remains to be seen how the situation will develop and whether the Maldives will take further steps to address India's concerns.