CALL FOR WITHDRAWAL: INDIA’S TROOPS IN MALDIVES

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TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: The recent request by Maldivian President for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel by March 15 has stirred geopolitical discussions.

EXPLANATION:

• As India and Maldives engage in negotiations, it becomes crucial to delve into the factors driving this call and the historical context of India’s military presence in the archipelago.
• Contrary to the inflammatory rhetoric, the number of Indian soldiers stationed in the Maldives is relatively modest.
• As per official figures, there are 88 Indian military personnel present, primarily involved in training Maldivian troops.
• The ‘India Out’ campaign, however, has amplified concerns about their role, portraying them as a threat to national security.

Historical Cooperation: A Long-standing Relationship

• India and the Maldives share a history of cooperation, particularly in defense.
• The one instance of Indian soldiers entering the island for military operations occurred in 1988, thwarting a coup at the request of then-President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.
• This historical cooperation has generally been appreciated by the Maldivian government.

Factors Driving Fear and Suspicion

• Several factors contribute to the fear and suspicion surrounding India’s military presence in the Maldives, with the ‘India Out’ campaign gaining momentum.
• Controversy over Dhruv Helicopters
  • A longstanding controversy revolves around the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters provided by India for ocean search-and-rescue operations.
  • Misinformation portrayed these helicopters as military assets, fueling anti-India sentiments.

• Perceived Lack of Transparency
  • Grievances arise from the perception that the Ibrahim Mohamed Solih government lacks transparency in its dealings with India.
  • This opacity contributes to a sense of mistrust among certain factions in the Maldives.

• Reliance on India for Maritime Security
  • Maldives heavily relies on India for maritime security against common threats like illicit trafficking, piracy, and illegal fishing.
  • While this collaboration is vital, it also raises concerns among those skeptical of India’s influence in the region.

• Police Academy and Building Size Misconceptions
  • The construction of a new police academy with Indian assistance sparked rumors about its size and purpose.
  • Unfounded speculations suggested it was meant to accommodate Indian personnel and their families, contributing to mistrust.

• UTF Harbour Project Agreement
• • The UTF Harbour Project agreement signed in 2021 to develop a coastguard harbor led to speculations about the establishment of an Indian naval base.
  • Despite clarifications, these speculations added to the apprehensions surrounding India’s strategic interests in the Maldives.

Geopolitical Tensions: Recent Presidential Elections

• During the recent presidential elections, disinformation and misinformation, particularly against India, were rampant.
• The political narrative painted the Maldivian Democratic Party as influenced by India, while the winning coalition was perceived as pro-China.

Conclusion

• The complex web of historical cooperation, geopolitical tensions, and the amplification of concerns contributes to the current scenario.
• As India and Maldives negotiate the withdrawal of troops, understanding these factors is crucial for grasping the dynamics shaping the diplomatic landscape in the Indian Ocean region.

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SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/why-are-indian-soldiers-in-maldives-9109278/