Relations between India and the island country have deteriorated since Maldivian President Mohammed Muizzu won the elections last year. Muizzu has also given an ultimatum to the Indian Army to withdraw from Maldives.
Maldives, which has been maintaining distance from India, is gradually moving closer to China. Recently Muizzu had visited China, where 20 agreements including tourism were signed.
Now amidst the ongoing tension with India, Maldives has taken a big decision. Actually, Maldives has decided to expel 43 Indian citizens from its country.
Maldives has accused 186 foreigners, including 43 Indians, of committing visa violations and drug-related crimes. Now Maldives is deporting these people.
After the deportation of Indian citizens, it is feared that relations between India and Maldives may deteriorate further.
A news from Male’s online news organization ‘Adhadhu’ has given information about deportation of Indians. According to the news, the largest number of people deported are from Bangladesh.
At least 83 Bangladeshis have been deported, followed by 43 Indians, 25 Sri Lankans and eight Nepalese nationals.
Maldives Home Minister Ali Ihussan told a press conference that the ministry was working closely with the Finance Ministry to take action against illegal activities.
He said that the Home Ministry is working towards curbing such activities and deporting the foreigners conducting them.
Immigration controller Shaman Waheed said 186 foreigners who committed crimes have been deported from the Maldives.
He said that as part of the operation to detect foreign workers involved in criminal activities, the Immigration Department detained some people and deported those who had valid documents and passports.