PM Modi’s shared post of visiting Lakshadweep made instant headlines making the Union Territory 10th most searched word on Google, bringing unpleasant remarks from the government of Maldives.
For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list.
During my stay, I also tried snorkelling – what an exhilarating experience it was! pic.twitter.com/rikUTGlFN7
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 4, 2024
PM Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep and snorkelling on the beaches sparked a multifaceted debate in India and Maldives for various reasons:
Tourism and Development
Boosting Lakshadweep Tourism: Some see the visit as an attempt to promote Lakshadweep as a tourist destination, potentially rivalling the established popularity of Maldives. This fuelled a sense of competition and concerns about over-tourism in Lakshadweep’s fragile ecosystem.
Development vs. Conservation: The focus on development raises concerns about environmental and cultural sustainability. Critics fear that project developments and tourist infrastructure could harm the beauty of the islands along with traditions and beliefs of the locals.
Political Tensions
Lakshadweep Controversies: The visit was linked with changes in the on-going administrative changes in Lakshadweep, that could affect local autonomy and cultural sensitivities. This triggered tensions between the Lakshadweep management and some sections of the Indian population.
India-Maldives Relations: PM Modi’s visit coincided with a chain of complex diplomatic relations between India and Maldives. Lately, Maldives hosted Chinese armed forces, leading to concerns about China’s rising influence in the nation. This fuelled assumption that India wanted to counterbalance China’s presence by promoting Lakshadweep.
Nationalism and Geopolitics
Nationalistic Sentiment: PM Modi’s visit and emphasis on Lakshadweep’s beauty resonated with a sense of national pride in India, sparking interest in exploring domestic tourism options. This, however, fuelled some negative comparisons with Maldives and comments perceived as insensitive by sections of the Maldivian public.
Strategic Importance: Lakshadweep’s location in the Indian Ocean holds strategic importance, and some view the visit as part of India’s efforts to assert its maritime presence in the region. This geopolitical angle added another layer to the debate, particularly in the context of China’s rising influence.
It’s important to note that the debate is complex and multifaceted, with various perspectives and interpretations. Understanding the diverse reasons behind the debate requires careful consideration of all these factors and avoiding oversimplification.
