Cine Workers' Association Asks Indian Filmmakers Not To Film In Maldives Anymore, Requests Celebrities To Boycott The Island Destination
India's relationship with Maldives faces strain following derogatory remarks by three Maldivian leaders directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Amidst the India-Maldives dispute, the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has urged the Indian Film Industry to refrain from shooting in the Maldives. AICWA President Suresh Shyamlal, in conversation with ANI, revealed the Maldives government's request for the withdrawal of the Indian Army from their islands by March 15. ALSO READ: Nagarjuna Cancels Maldives Holiday Amid Controversy, South Superstar Gives Shoutout To Lakshadweep’s Bangaram Islands
He highlighted the use of inappropriate language by some Maldives ministers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leading to a call for boycotting Maldives in India. Suresh Shyamlal appealed to the Indian film industry, urging them not to shoot films in Maldives and advised against travel to the country for holidays. The diplomatic tension arose after three Maldivian leaders posted derogatory remarks and mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Lakshadweep. ALSO READ: Aditi Bhatia Gets TROLLED By Sharing Maldives Getaway Photos Amid Ongoing Controversy, Netizens Say 'Lakshadweep Ki Taraf Badho'
India strongly raised the issue, prompting criticism from leading opposition figures in the Maldives against the ruling establishment. Additionally, the incident has led to a boycott by Indian tourists, a major contributor to the Maldives' tourism income. In response to the online controversy, the Maldivian government has distanced itself from the remarks directed at PM Modi.
#WATCH | Maharashtra | President of All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA), Suresh Shyamlal says, "Maldives government has asked the Indian government to withdraw the Indian Army from their islands by March 15. Some days ago, some Maldives ministers had used wrong words… pic.twitter.com/UUAoFY5oSE
— ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2024
In recent reports by Maldives local media, it was revealed that President Mohamed Muizzu has requested the Indian government to withdraw its troops from the island nation by March 15. Significantly, the removal of Indian troops in the Maldives was a primary focus of Muizzu's party's campaign. Presently, there are approximately 70 Indian troops stationed in the Maldives, along with a Dornier 228 maritime patrol aircraft and two HAL Dhruv helicopters.
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