Indians Swiftly Cancel Maldives Travel Plans Amid Controversy Over Minister's Anti-PM Modi Post.

Maldives Minister Abdulla Mahzoom Majid suggests that PM Modi's recent trip to the Lakshadweep islands is seen as an effort to divert India's attention from the Maldives.

In the wake of derogatory comments made by Maldivian ministers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a substantial number of Indian tourists have opted to cancel their vacation plans to the Maldives. This move, prompted by the offensive remarks, gained momentum as Indian celebrities joined the chorus urging citizens to explore the beauty of Indian islands.

Maldives, heavily dependent on Indian tourists for its economy, witnessed a surge in cancellations, causing concern among stakeholders. More than two lakh Indian tourists are reported to have visited the Maldives by December 2023. In response to the unfolding situation, the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) highlighted the importance of maintaining positive relations between the two nations.

MATATO stated, "It is crucial to dispel any misconceptions with regard to the matter, and MATATO highlights that efforts to develop and foster Lakshwadweep island’s tourism sector have no discernible negative effect on the Maldives tourism industry."