EaseMyTrip, one of India’s leading travel platforms, has suspended flight bookings to the Maldives indefinitely after social media posts targeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi strained relations between the two nations. India and Russia are major contributors to the Maldives’ tourism industry, which accounts for nearly one-third of its economy. The move comes in response to derogatory comments made by three Maldivian ministers about PM Modi on social media platform X.
Prashant Pitti, Co-founder and Executive Director of EaseMyTrip, stated that the suspension was a response to disrespectful statements from the Maldives government representatives. He emphasized that any self-respecting nation should take such actions. The controversy coincides with President Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to China, a departure from the tradition of Maldivian leaders choosing New Delhi for their first international visit.
EaseMyTrip, holding a 22% market share in India, aims to promote domestic destinations like Lakshadweep over international locations during this period. The Maldives government has suspended three deputy ministers for their derogatory remarks about PM Modi. The diplomatic strain has led to India summoning the Maldivian envoy and expressing concerns about the situation.
As tensions persist, many Indians, including celebrities, have turned to social media to promote domestic destinations over the Maldives. The tourism sector, a significant foreign exchange earner for the Maldives, faces uncertainties due to the ongoing diplomatic dispute.
