India's Strong Message To Maldives, 'Safeguard Space For Legitimate Political Dissent' | News World India

In Maldives, after the huge protests on May 1, the entire opposition leadership and nearly 200 demonstrators had been arrested. (Photo: AP)

In strong message to Maldives’ government, India has asked it to safeguard space for legitimate political dissent and adhere to due process. However, it stopped short of demanding the release of jailed former President Mohamed Nasheed.

According to media reports, India’s statement was read out during the universal period review of Maldives at the UNHRC in Geneva on Wednesday.

“Maintaining public trust requires strong adherence to due process. The space for legitimate political dissent must be safeguarded,” said the Indian statement. This was a clear reference to the imprisonment of Nasheed and his fellow Cabinet colleague and then Defence Minister Mohamed Nazim.

Since thier arrest opposition has been staging regular street protests. Maldives saw a massive protest on May 1 when more than 20,000 people marched on capital Male’s streets and several opposition leaders were arrested.

Although the Indian delegation did not specifically ask for the release of Nasheed who was sentenced to 13 years, the statement in Geneva is a clear stepping up of pressure by New Delhi.

India also took note of the status of migrant workers in Maldives and pointed out that violent attacks had taken place recently. “We recommend that the Government of Maldives puts in place measures for the safety and security of foreign workers and effectively implements the Anti-Human Trafficking Act,” it said.