Anand Kumar replies: Though GMR was a private Indian company working in Maldives only to further its corporate interests, but it also symbolised the engagement of Indian business community with the Maldives. Definitely, the GMR fiasco has caused an uncertainty in the bilateral relations. Maldives had also signed a defence agreement with China while the GMR row was still on. Clearly, a much larger game is on and it is not related only to the economics of GMR running the airport in Male. It is bound to impact India’s political, military and economic ties with the Maldives.

Anand Kumar replies: The importance of Maldives for India can never be over-emphasised. Maldives is an important member of SAARC. It is strategically located along major sea lanes in the Indian Ocean. A significant portion of world trade takes place through the Indian Ocean. All the energy supplies coming from Gulf nations pass through this area. After the democratically elected government of Mohamed Nasheed was replaced in an alleged coup, Maldives has been facing political uncertainty. Though India wants political stability and multi-party democracy to return to the country, it has no role in the ongoing developments in Maldives.

Anand Kumar replies: India should be concerned as Maldives has come under the control of forces that may not be as friendly as the previous regime was. Though the new president has paid visit to India, it has been noticed that there are voices trying to undermine the interests of Indian companies, like the GMR. It is feared that this could only be the beginning. India should also be concerned about the rising power of Islamists in the country. They are not only supporting the present government but are also gaining in influence within the country. The political flux in Maldives will also encourage other external forces, like China and Pakistan, to strengthen their hold in the country.