FREEZING WIND FROM MALE

First, in April 2022, came a giant banner emblazoned on the walls of the former Maldives president and opposition leader Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom's house in Male. Its message was unequivocal: "India Out".

Two months later, a mob attacked Yoga Day activities in Male organised by Indian diplomats for being "un-Islamic". These were early signs of an anti-India sentiment taking hold of the archipelago nation. Maldives president Mohamed Muizzu, who was mayor of Male when these incidents happened, surely took his cue from them. In 2023, he contested the presidential polls on an 'India Out' campaign, demanding a withdrawal of Indian military personnel so as to "ensure the country's sovereignty".

So, the latest controversy that erupted on January 7-intemperate reactions to videos and images posted by PM Narendra Modi on social media promoting tourism in Lakshadweep-come with a bit of history. But it has still taken India-Maldives relations to a diplomatic low not often seen before.