- India clarifies that all aviation operations in the Maldives were conducted with due authorization.
- An emergency landing in Thimarafushi in 2019 was due to unforeseen circumstances.
- India refutes claims made by Maldivian Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon.
Did India conduct unauthorized aviation operations in the Maldives?
India firmly denies any unauthorized aviation operations in the Maldives, responding to allegations made by Maldivian Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon. The Minister claimed that Indian military helicopter pilots conducted an unauthorized sortie in 2019, landing in Thimarafushi without permission. India, however, maintains that all operations have been carried out with proper authorization from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
What happened during the 2019 incident in Thimarafushi?
The incident in question involved one of the two helicopters operated by Indian military personnel in the Maldives, which made an emergency landing in Thimarafushi on October 9, 2019. India explained that the landing was necessitated by an unforeseen emergency. The High Commission of India emphasized that the operation was conducted after obtaining necessary on-ground approvals from the Air Traffic Control (ATC) to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its crew.
Why did India withdraw military personnel from the Maldives?
This clarification comes in the wake of India completing the withdrawal of 76 military personnel from the Maldives, following a demand by President Mohamed Muizzu. President Muizzu, who assumed office in November and is known for his pro-China stance, had set May 10 as the deadline for the removal of Indian troops. The withdrawal marks a shift in the Maldives’ foreign policy and its military engagements with neighboring countries.
By addressing these allegations, India aims to maintain transparent and cooperative relations with the Maldives, ensuring that all past and future operations are conducted within agreed-upon frameworks and with mutual consent.
Leave a Reply