Introduction

With President Muizzu’s administration insisting on the withdrawal of Indian troops, a high-level core group has been set up to negotiate this process.
This situation raises questions about the reasons behind the presence of Indian troops and the factors fueling the ‘India Out’ campaign.

Overview of the Current Situation

Official Statement: Maldives affirmed the policy of President Muizzu’s administration to remove Indian military personnel from the Maldives.
Negotiation Group: A core group, including Indian High Commissioner, met in Male to discuss the troop withdrawal, though the Indian government has not yet commented on these reports.

Troop Numbers: Contrary to the rhetoric of the ‘India Out’ campaign, only 88 Indian military personnel are stationed in the Maldives, primarily for training purposes.
Historical Context: Indian soldiers have been sent to the Maldives for training in combat, reconnaissance, and rescue-aid operations. The only time Indian troops were involved in active military operations was during the 1988 coup attempt, at the request of then-President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

Controversy over Helicopters: The gifting of two Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters by India, used for humanitarian purposes, became a point of contention, portrayed as a military presence by certain political factions.
Perceived Lack of Transparency: The Solih government’s alleged opacity in dealings with India fueled suspicions.
Maritime Security Dependence: The Maldives relies on India for maritime security, collaborating to counter common threats.
Police Academy Speculations: The construction of a new police academy with Indian assistance led to rumours about its purpose and scale.
UTF Harbour Project Agreement: Speculations about the UTF (Uthuru Thila Falhu- Island) project being turned into an Indian naval base, despite official clarifications to the contrary.

The insistence on the withdrawal of Indian troops from the Maldives and the ensuing ‘India Out’ campaign reflect a complex interplay of historical, political, and security factors.
While the Indian military presence has been primarily for training and humanitarian assistance, various internal and external elements have contributed to the current sentiment.
Understanding these nuances is crucial for comprehending the evolving relationship between India and the Maldives and the broader geopolitical implications in the region.