India Denies Maldivian Defence Minister’s Helicopters Allegation
On Tuesday, India dismissed allegations by Maldivian Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon that Indian military helicopters and pilots conducted an unauthorized operation in 2019. The Indian High Commission in the Maldives stated that Indian aviation platforms have always operated with the necessary authorizations and in line with agreed procedures.
The rebuttal came shortly after India completed the withdrawal of 76 military personnel from the Maldives, a requirement set by President Mohamed Muizzu. The diplomatic relationship between India and the Maldives has become tense since Muizzu, who has pro-China inclinations, assumed office in November last year. He had mandated that Indian troops leave by May 10.
During a press briefing, Defence Minister Ghassan claimed that an Indian helicopter made an unauthorized landing in Thimarafushi, an incident reviewed by the National Security Services Committee of the Maldivian Parliament. The Indian High Commission, however, maintained that the incident was an emergency landing due to unforeseen circumstances, conducted with MNDF and ATC approvals.
According to local media, the MNDF revealed that the unauthorized helicopter operation happened during the tenure of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Defence Minister Ghassan also revealed that the Maldives still lacks qualified pilots to operate the aircraft donated by India, which Indian personnel have been flying. These aircraft, used for medical evacuations, include two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft.
The repatriation of Indian military personnel was completed by the May 10 deadline, following a February agreement between India and the Maldives.
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