Male, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has firmly stated that no Indian military personnel, including those in civilian attire, will remain in the Maldives after May 10. This declaration reaffirms the Maldives’ stance on the presence of Indian military forces within its territory and follows recent developments involving Indian military officials’ early arrival to assume control over one of the island nation’s aviation platforms.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the presence of these officials, perceived as a civilian team but identified as military personnel, has sparked controversy ahead of the previously agreed deadline for the withdrawal of Indian forces. During a community meeting in Baa atoll Eydhafushi, as part of his atoll tour, President Muizzu addressed the issue, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to removing Indian military presence from the Maldives. He accused detractors of spreading misinformation about the military’s departure and asserted that no Indian military personnel would be in the country in any capacity past the deadline.
President Muizzu’s pledge marks a continuation of his policy stance articulated shortly after his inauguration last year. In his first address to the parliament, he demanded the withdrawal of Indian personnel, reflecting the Maldivian people’s mandate. The president’s request for India to remove its military forces underscores the country’s pursuit of sovereignty and independence, particularly concerning strategic interests in the Indian Ocean.
Edition.mv reports that the initial phase of the military withdrawal will involve Indian personnel stationed at two helicopters in Addu City, followed by those in Haa Dhaalu atoll Hanimaadhoo and Laamu atoll Kahdhoo, all expected to exit before the May 10 deadline. The president also highlighted efforts to secure the southern maritime area as part of the broader initiative to assert the Maldives’ independence and sovereignty.
This situation signifies a critical moment in Maldives-India relations, with implications for regional security and diplomatic engagements in the Indian Ocean. President Muizzu’s assertions reflect a strong nationalistic approach, aiming to reassure the Maldivian populace of their country’s autonomy and strategic decisions without external military influence.