Maldives sate minister Siddeeq criticises Indian govt over video

State Minister Ahmed Siddeeq criticised the Indian government on Sunday after sharing a video appearing to show a police officer assaulting a man tied to a post.

Siddeeq shared the footage from an X account operating under the name Rahul Saini. The person carrying out the assault was described as a suspected Indian police officer.

“It becomes a joke when governments of countries like this talk about justice,” Siddeeq wrote.

“Instead of investigating an alleged offence and taking the case to court, they beat the accused with sticks and iron pipes, leaving him disabled. Is that how they deliver justice?”

The Homeland Ministry’s website lists Siddeeq as a state minister. He was appointed to the position in early 2024.

His remarks come against the backdrop of relations between the Maldives and India that deteriorated early in President Mohamed Muizzu’s administration before later improving.

The governing political camp had conducted an “India Out” campaign while in opposition. Relations came under further strain after three deputy ministers made derogatory remarks about India and its prime minister.

The three officials were suspended. Their comments prompted calls in India to boycott the Maldives, with celebrities joining the campaign. Indian tourist arrivals subsequently fell, affecting tourism revenue.

Muizzu’s remarks directed at India after returning from an official visit to China also contributed to tensions. The two countries later took steps to improve relations.