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What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
NEW DELHI: Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar on Sunday took to X formerly known as Twitter to share his two cents on the racist comments by Maldives officials. The actor, who was last seen in the satirical drama ‘OMG 2’, said in his post that he is surprised that Maldives’ government officials are making racist and hateful comments against Indians, while adding the country sends the maximum number of tourists to the island nation.
The dispute originated from PM Narendra Modi’s recent trip to Lakshadweep, which garnered attention among travel enthusiasts. During his visit, Modi inaugurated various development projects and enjoyed the scenic beaches of Lakshadweep. Images of Modi snorkelling in the sea became widely popular on social media and were trending prominently on X.
Nevertheless, Modi’s effort to enhance tourism in Lakshadweep seemed to upset certain people in the Maldives, including government representatives. Maldives minister Mariyam Shiuna had criticised Modi for his visit to Lakshadweep in a now-removed post on X.
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Shiuna had urged tourists to explore the island nation using the #VisitMaldives trend. Some other Maldivian internet users also shared discriminatory and offensive remarks against Indians.
Mariyam Shiuna, a Deputy Minister in the Maldives govt, posted this insulting comment against PM Modi.
In her position mocking a democratically elected PM of a nation that has always helped the Maldives is beyond shameful.
Give her a befitting reply India by not holidaying in… pic.twitter.com/4Vj9VGbUjG
— 🦋Anjna🦋🇮🇳 (@SaffronQueen_) January 6, 2024
In response to the incident, Akshay Kumar commented that he has frequented the Maldives and has consistently admired the beauty of the island. However, he emphasised that prioritising his dignity as an Indian national is paramount. He encouraged his followers to discover Indian islands and endorse our domestic tourism industry.
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Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists. We are good to our neighbors but why should we tolerate such unprovoked hate? I’ve visited the Maldives many times and always praised it, but dignity first. Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism,” Kumar said in his post.
Came across comments from prominent public figures from Maldives passing hateful and racist comments on Indians. Surprised that they are doing this to a country that sends them the maximum number of tourists.
We are good to our neighbors but
why should we tolerate such… pic.twitter.com/DXRqkQFguN— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) January 7, 2024
At the same time, the Maldives government disassociated itself from the remarks made by its officials targeting Prime Minister Modi. They stated that they would take measures against individuals making such offensive comments.
“The Government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the Government of Maldives…Moreover, the relevant authorities of the Government will not hesitate to take action against those who make such derogatory remarks,” the Maldivian government’s statement read.
