Oppn On Maldives Row: Pawar Says 'We Must Respect PM Post', Kharge Feels Modi 'Takes Everything Personally'

Lakshadweep vs Maldives row: Some Opposition leaders condemned the online attacks on Modi from foreign nations, others argued that foreign relations should not be determined by social media influencers.

Outlook Web Desk

Updated on: 9 January 2024 3:11 pm

PM Modi in Lakshadweep

Last week, PM Modi's social media posts promoting tourism in the Lakshadweep islands sparked a heated online feud between Indian and Maldivian social media users. The controversy led to a diplomatic strain between the two nations.

Soon after Modi's posts, some prominent Maldivians made derogatory comments about Indians and the Indian Prime Minister. This led to both sides comparing the Maldives and Lakshadweep online. Many Indians cancelled trips to the Maldives and opted for Lakshadweep instead. In response, the Maldives suspended three ministers for their anti-India social media activity that inflamed tensions.

The Opposition leaders in India had mixed reactions to the Lakshadweep vs Maldives row. While some condemned the online attacks on Modi from foreign nations, others argued that foreign relations should not be determined by social media influencers.

Here is a breakdown of how key Opposition leaders reacted

1.Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge

"After Narendra Modi came to power he is taking everything personally. At the international level, we should keep a good relationship with our neighbours. We should act according to time. We can not change our neighbours..."

2. NCP chief Sharad Pawar

"He is the Prime Minister of our country and if anyone from any other country holding any position makes such comments on our PM, we won't accept it. We must respect the PM's post. We won't accept anything against the Prime Minister from outside the country."

3. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi

“Wonder if our foreign policy and international relations will be decided by social media, influencers, film actors or ministers in charge and the GoI?”

4. Former Jammu and Kashmir CM Farooq Abdullah

"India has always helped the Maldives. I don't understand what is the reason behind this controversy today. Is it because of the hatred rising between Hindus and Muslims in India? China's influence is increasing not only there but also in Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh. India is trying to resolve the matters by dialogue."