Nishant Pitti, the CEO of EaseMyTrip, announced the suspension of all flight bookings to the Maldives. This decision comes in response to derogatory comments made by Maldivian ministers against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Taking a stand in solidarity with India, Pitti conveyed this message on social media, stating, “In solidarity with our nation, @EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings.”
EaseMyTrip, a leading online travel solutions provider, recently launched the #ChaloLakshadweep campaign, urging travelers to explore the picturesque Lakshadweep islands as an alternative to the Maldives. Pitti emphasized the pristine beauty of Lakshadweep, comparing it favorably to popular international destinations such as the Maldives and Seychelles.
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The decision to suspend Maldives flight bookings comes amid a growing controversy fueled by disparaging remarks made by Maldivian politicians about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his visit to Lakshadweep. This diplomatic strain prompted the hashtag #BoycottMaldives on social media, with Indian tourists expressing their discontent by canceling planned vacations to the Maldives.
Anticipating a significant impact on tourism, the Indian Association of Tour Operators predicted a visible decline in Maldives travel inquiries within the next 20-25 days. Social media users reported a sudden drop in interest and inquiries regarding trips to the Maldives, with some claiming to have canceled their holiday plans to the island nation.
Rajiv Mehra, President of the Indian Association of Tour Operators, acknowledged the sudden decrease in Maldives-related inquiries and expressed concerns about the potential long-term impact on travel to the popular destination. The Maldives has traditionally been a favored spot for Indian tourists, ranking highest in visitor numbers until December 2023.
The controversial remarks that triggered this backlash came from Maldivian ministers Mariyam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef, and Mahzoom Majid. Shiuna, in particular, made derogatory comments about Prime Minister Modi on a social media platform, showcasing images from his recent visit to Lakshadweep. The Maldives government responded by suspending the three ministers over their inflammatory statements.
The incident has stirred a wave of discontent among potential Indian tourists, leading to a surge in support for the #ExploreIndianIslands campaign on social media. Indian celebrities from the film industry have joined this movement, encouraging people to consider domestic destinations like Lakshadweep for their travel plans.
As tensions between India and the Maldives escalate, the travel industry braces for potential repercussions, with operators expecting a decline in Maldives tourism. The suspension of flight bookings by EaseMyTrip underscores the broader impact of diplomatic disputes on the travel sector, emphasizing the need for diplomatic resolutions to safeguard international tourism relationships.
