New Delhi, Feb 6: The Indian government directed all its citizens to defer any non-essential travel to Maldives until further notice. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday night issued an advisory asking Indians in Maldives to stay alert and avoid public gatherings.
“The prevailing political developments in Maldives and the resultant law and order situation is a matter of concern for the Government of India. Indian nationals are, therefore, advised to defer all non-essential travels to Male and other atolls until further notice,”the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.
“Indian expatriates in Maldives are also alerted to the need for heightened security awareness, and urged to exercise due caution in public and avoid public gatherings,” it added.
The advisory came hours after Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen declared a 15-day state of emergency, amid a tense standoff between the Supreme Court and the government. Meanwhile, former President of Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, Chief Justice Abdulla Saeed, Supreme Court Justice Ali Hameed and Judicial administrator Hassan Saeed have been taken into custody. The arrest indicates that the crackdown on the opposition has intensified.
Opposition leaders across the Maldives were being rounded up and placed under detention as Yameen, who has been refusing to obey SC’s orders, directing him to release nine prominent leaders from prison, has given sweeping powers to security forces. (Also Read: Maldives Crisis: Political Situation Remain Tense, Demand For President’s Resignation Grows)
Former general attorney Ahmad Ali Sawad said the state of emergency should not be used by the government to crush the fundamental rights of its citizens. The United States has also expressed its support to the people of the Maldives and said the government must respect the law and democratic values.
“America stands with the people of Maldives. The Maldivian government and military must respect the rule of law, freedom of expression, and democratic institutions. The world is watching,” the U.S. National Security Council tweeted yesterday.
(With inputs from agencies)