CALL FOR WITHDRAWAL: INDIA’S TROOPS IN MALDIVES

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.

FOR MORE INFORMATION KINDLY REFER TO THE 11^TH JANUARY DNA TOPIC.

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