New Delhi, Jan 8 (IANS): After three Maldivian ministers made derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian Foreign Ministry on Monday summoned Maldives High Commissioner Ibrahim Shaheeb over the matter.

Shaheeb reached the Foreign Ministry’s office at South Block in Delhi on Monday morning.

According to the information, India has expressed its displeasure on the issue. The three ministers who made objectionable remarks on Modi have been dismissed by the Maldives government.

The Indian High Commission in Male had raised this issue with the Maldives government on Sunday.

It may be noted that the controversy started at a time when Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has left for a week-long visit to China.

After India raised strong objection, the Maldives government has issued a statement giving clarification. According to the Maldives government, the statements given by the ministers in this matter are personal. The government of Maldives says that the government has nothing to do with this matter.

The controversy started when three Deputy Ministers of Maldives criticised Prime Minister Modi on social media platforms after his visit to Lakshadweep. They alleged that India is trying to present Lakshadweep as an alternative tourist destination to Maldives.

Prominent opposition leaders of Maldives have also criticized their own government on this matter.

The derogatory remarks of Maldivian ministers are also being condemned across India.

Indian film stars, sportspersons and celebrities are urging people on social media to visit Indian tourist places instead of going to Maldives. Many Indian tourists have also given information on social media about cancellation of their trip to Maldives.