The opposition has called for action against government officials who had insulted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India.
Former Foreign Minister and veteran diplomat Abdulla Shahid, former government ministers and some diplomats have criticized the government over the controversy.
Tagging Modi's official X account, Shahid condemned the derogatory remarks by two deputy ministers.
"I call on the Government to reprimand these officials. Public figures must maintain decorum," Shahid wrote in his post.
Former Economic Minister and opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail put the responsibility for the controversy on President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
"His continuous racist stance is reflected in his government officials vitriolic. Stop bashing a staunch ally and friend," Fayyaz wrote.
Former Environment Minister Aminath Shauna said "continued xenophobic campaign against India by the current government is appalling and irresponsible."
The Vice President of Democrats, Mohamed Shifaz said Maldivians should not do anything that would disrupt the friendship between Maldives and India.
Former Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Farah Faisal, called for reforms, saying that people in government positions cannot express their personal views on accounts marked with a “grey tick”.
Deputy Youth Ministers Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef and Mahzoom Majid have now been suspended over their posts mocking Modi.
Heated exchanges have been taking place on X between some top officials of the Maldivian government and Indian citizens and troll accounts. The spat was kicked off by a video posted by Modi to promote tourism in Lakshadweep.
