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What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
India should also monitor the situation in the Maldives, and be ready to intervene if necessary, to protect its citizens and assets, and to prevent any threat or aggression from China or its proxies.
India is currently considering the modalities and timing of withdrawing its Indian Defence personnel from the Maldives, following a request from the Maldivian government. The decision is expected to be made next month, based on the availability of civilian crew for the surveillance assets. The Indian forces stationed in the Maldives are currently waiting for government directives regarding the withdrawal from the island nation.
This development comes amid the strained relations between India and the Maldives, which have deteriorated since the election of President Mohamed Muizzu, who is considered pro-Chinese, last year. Muizzu had campaigned on an ‘India Out’ campaign, which has alienated India and undermined the decades-long partnership between the two countries in the field of defence and security.
India has been a reliable and generous partner for the Maldives, providing it with financial aid, infrastructure development, humanitarian assistance, and military support. India has also supplied Dhruv helicopters and Dornier aircraft to the Maldives, which have enhanced the capabilities and capacities of the Maldivian military and security forces. The Indian forces have also trained the Maldivian forces in operating and handling these aircraft, which have been used for various purposes, such as disaster relief, maritime surveillance, and counter-terrorism.
However, the Maldives has shown little gratitude and appreciation for India’s assistance and cooperation and has instead tilted towards China, which has been expanding its influence and presence in the Indian Ocean region. China has been investing heavily in the Maldives, building infrastructure projects, such as ports, bridges, and airports, under its Belt and Road Initiative. China has also been providing loans and grants to the Maldives, which has increased its debt and dependence on China.
The Maldives has also been undermining India’s interests and security in the region, by allowing Chinese naval vessels to dock in its ports, signing a free trade agreement with China, and supporting China’s position on the South China Sea dispute. The Maldives has also been disrespecting India’s sovereignty and dignity, by making derogatory remarks against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and by suspending the visa-on-arrival facility for Indian tourists.
India has tried to maintain a cordial and constructive relationship with the Maldives, despite its provocations and betrayals, but it seems that the Maldives is not interested in reciprocating India’s goodwill and friendship. India has also tried to engage with President Muizzu and persuade him to reconsider his anti-India stance, but it seems that he is determined to pursue his pro-China agenda, regardless of the consequences for the Maldives and the region.
Therefore, India is better off without the pro-China Maldives, which has proven to be an untrustworthy and unreliable partner. India should not waste its time and resources on a country that does not value its partnership and support, and that does not respect its sovereignty and dignity. India should instead focus on strengthening its ties with other countries in the region, such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Mauritius, which share its vision and values, and appreciate its role and contribution to the regional peace and stability.
India should also monitor the situation in the Maldives, and be ready to intervene if necessary, to protect its citizens and assets, and to prevent any threat or aggression from China or its proxies. India is better off without the pro-China Maldives, which has become a liability and a headache for India. India should not let the Maldives drag it down, and should instead move on and look ahead.
