Thread by @axanner

A Look Back: India's Violation of Maldivian Sovereignty Over Refusal to Withdraw Helicopters. As Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visits the Maldives to sign more military agreements, let's dive into the diplomatic notes obtained by the @MaldivesJournal 1/10

In April 2018, the Maldivian foreign ministry requested India to withdraw the MNDF Kurangi Advanced Light Helicopter from Maldives by end of June 2018. 2/10

On 6th May 2018, the Maldivian government sent a letter to the Indian embassy, asking for the withdrawal of the IN-ALH750 helicopter at Laamu atoll by end of June 2018. 3/10

Despite these requests, India did not withdraw the helicopters. On 10th June 2018, the Maldivian government asked India for a schedule detailing the withdrawal process. 4/10

The Indian embassy responded on 25th June 2018, stating they needed more time to examine the withdrawal request and requesting visa extensions for the helicopter crew. 5/10

On 27th June, the Maldivian government replied, reiterating their request for the helicopters to be withdrawn by 30th June 2018 and asking for an urgent withdrawal schedule. 6/10

India did not comply with the deadline. The Maldivian government refused to extend the visas for the helicopter crew, rendering the helicopters inoperable. 7/10

After President Yameen's election loss and President Solih's inauguration in 2018, the helicopter agreements were renewed, and the helicopters resumed operation. 8/10

Various military agreements with India have since raised concerns over the Maldives' sovereignty. The Maldives risks losing its independence if it continues to agree to each military agreement proposed by India. 9/10

It is for this reason that people are calling #IndiaOut. These calls are justified, as past actions prove that India does not fully respect the Maldives' sovereignty. The Maldives must remain vigilant to protect its independence. 10/10