Anand Kumar replies: India should be concerned as Maldives has come under the control of forces that may not be as friendly as the previous regime was. Though the new president has paid visit to India, it has been noticed that there are voices trying to undermine the interests of Indian companies, like the GMR. It is feared that this could only be the beginning. India should also be concerned about the rising power of Islamists in the country. They are not only supporting the present government but are also gaining in influence within the country. The political flux in Maldives will also encourage other external forces, like China and Pakistan, to strengthen their hold in the country.
Developments in the Maldives and India’s Options
Knowing how slippery the democratic playfield can be and having a sense of who actually has fouled, as a sort of friendly referee, India should award a free kick to the player who has been knocked down.