Boy’s Death Reported After Maldives President Denies Approval to Indian Plane

Boy's Death Reported After Maldives President Denies Approval to Indian Plane

VoM News Desk | January 21, 2024 | 11:31 PM IST | Maldives, World | Follow on Google News

Boy’s Death Reported After Maldives President Denies Approval to Indian Plane

Boy’s Death Reported After Maldives President Denies Approval to Indian Plane

Amid diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives, a tragic incident unfolded as a 14-year-old Maldivian boy lost his life after President Mohammed Muizzu allegedly denied permission for the use of an Indian Dornier aircraft. The aircraft, provided by India, could have potentially saved the teenager battling a brain tumor and a stroke.

Distress Calls Ignored, Delay Sparks Protests

The distress began when the boy suffered a stroke, prompting his family to seek an air ambulance for an urgent transfer from the remote island of Wilmington to the capital Male. However, their calls reportedly went unanswered for 16 crucial hours, leading to protests near the hospital in Gaaf Alif Villingili.

Aasandha Company Explanation

Aasandha Company Limited, responsible for medical evacuations, stated that they initiated the evacuation process promptly upon receiving the request. However, they cited a last-minute “technical glitch” causing a delay.

Diplomatic Tensions Exacerbate Grief

The incident occurred against the backdrop of strained diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives. The new president, Mohamed Muizzu, has signaled a shift in foreign policy, moving away from the previous “India first” approach and indicating closer ties with China. This incident adds to the heightened tensions and dissatisfaction expressed by some Maldivian officials.

Outpour of Anguish on Social Media

Maldivian MP Meekail Naseem expressed discontent, stating, “People shouldn’t have to pay with their lives to satisfy the President’s animosity towards India.” Former Deputy Ambassador to the UAE from Maldives, Mohamed Faisal, questioned the consequences of such decisions and the potential loss of lives due to what he called “Muizzu’s pitiful arrogance.”

As the tragic incident raises questions about the humanitarian aspects of diplomatic relations, it underscores the complex dynamics impacting the lives of individuals caught in the crossfire of geopolitical tensions. The international community will be keenly observing how such incidents influence the broader relationship between India and the Maldives.

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.