India has countered claims made by Maldivian Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon that Indian military helicopters and pilots undertook an unauthorized mission in 2019. The Indian High Commission in the Maldives clarified that Indian aviation platforms have always followed the agreed-upon procedures and obtained necessary authorizations.
This clarification was issued shortly after India withdrew 76 military personnel from the Maldives, a demand made by President Mohamed Muizzu. Diplomatic relations have been strained since Muizzu, a pro-China leader, took office in November last year and set a May 10 deadline for the withdrawal of Indian troops.
At a recent press conference, Defence Minister Ghassan accused an Indian helicopter of unauthorized landing in Thimarafushi, a matter reviewed by the Maldivian Parliament’s National Security Services Committee. However, the Indian High Commission responded that the landing was due to an emergency, executed with MNDF and ATC approvals.
Local reports indicate that the MNDF acknowledged the unauthorized helicopter mission during the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Ghassan also admitted that the Maldives lacks trained pilots for the three aircraft donated by India, which Indian personnel have been operating. These aircraft, including two helicopters and a Dornier, were primarily used for medical evacuations.
The final group of Indian military personnel departed the Maldives by the May 10 deadline, concluding an agreement reached in February.
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