India has again expressed concern over the arrest and manhandling of former Maldives President Mohammad Nasheed.
“We urge all concerned to calm the situation and resolve their differences within the constitutional and legal framework of Maldives. India reiterates its commitment to supporting the people and Government of Maldives in their quest for peace, development, prosperity and democracy,’’ the Spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs said in a live question and answer session on Facebook on Tuesday.
The former President of Maldives was taken into custody on Sunday under anti-terrorism laws for allegedly ordering the arrest of a senior judge in 2012. He was manhandled while being brought to the criminal court in Male on Monday.
Apart from India, other countries including the US and the Commonwealth have also expressed concern. In a statement, the Commonwealth said that the Secretary-General had raised his concerns with Foreign Minister of Maldives Dunya Maumoon, and stressed the importance of ensuring that the rule of law is respected with adherence to due process and in accordance with the Commonwealth Charter.
Meanwhile, in response to the large large street protest in Malé on 22 February following the arrest of Nasheed, the UK has asked its citizens in Maldives to ``take care, remain vigilant, take appropriate security precautions and avoid large gatherings, protests and rallies,” while visiting Maldives.
Pointing out that there is a general threat from terrorism, the UK Government advisory adds, ``most visits to Maldives are trouble free.”
Foreign Secretary’s SAARC yatra In response to another question, the Spokesman said Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar will be undertaking a SAARC yatra including Pakistan in March. This is in accordance with the Prime Minister’s directive that the Foreign Secretary should visit all SAARC countries.
The decision to send Jaishankar on a SAARC yatra was tweeted by Modi earlier this month after he spoke telephonically with the leaders of the regional grouping.
The Spokesman said that there will would soon be a bus service connecting India and Myanmar. ``Currently, the road needs upgradation. Once it is done, the bus service will be operational,” he added.