The number of Indian soldiers based in the Maldives is 88 and their removal is a national jihad but a date for their departure is unclear, the government has reiterated.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu assumed office with a strong mandate to remove Indian troops from the Maldives. But nearly a month and a half after coming to power, his administration faces criticism from the public over the failure to produce results.
At a press conference at the President's Office on Sunday evening, Principal Secretary to the President on Public Policy Abdulla Nazim said it was unimportant at the moment whether or not the Indian soldiers remained in the country with the government's consent.
Calling it a "national jihad," he said the government's intent was very clear.
"What's important in this is to remain steadfast. For the government to know that this is the intent of Maldivians, this is what Maldivians wish for, this is what Maldivians want, to include it among government policies and to continue without stopping until the policy is implemented and an end is reached. This is really a national jihad," Nazim said.
When an Adhadhu journalist asked whether a deadline had been set for the removal of Indian troops, Nazim said he "could not say at present."
"'No consent, disapproval,' such words; whether it is without consent or approval is maybe not what we should be focusing on. Our aim is very clear. What we're trying to do is very clear. The government is saying Indian soldiers should not be in this country. Those in the country now will have to leave the country through legal means," Nazim said.
A total of 11 meetings have been held so far as part of the efforts to send back the Indian soldiers, Nazim said, revealing that further meetings are due to take place this month.
"As such things can only be resolved through diplomatic means, the government is carrying out the necessary work within legal bounds in a civilized manner in accordance with modern principles accepted by the world," he said.
Indian soldiers cannot be expelled by "taking and putting away by force" and it will be done in line with diplomatic rules, Nazim said.
India agreed to take back the soldiers during a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the COP-28 summit, the President said. However, the President did not share any further details when questioned by journalists. The Indian government has not provided much information on the issue either.
