EaseMyTrip Halts Maldives Flight Bookings in Solidarity with India

New Delhi-based online travel company, EaseMyTrip, has taken a decisive step in support of India amid escalating tensions. The CEO, Nishant Pitti, announced on social media that EaseMyTrip has temporarily suspended all flight bookings to the Maldives. This move comes in response to derogatory remarks made by some now-suspended ministers against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his recent visit to Lakshadweep.

Nishant Pitti shared the company's stance on social media, stating, “In solidarity with our nation, @EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings.” The decision aligns with the online travel solutions provider's campaign, #ChaloLakshadweep, initiated to promote Lakshadweep as an alternative tourist destination.

The controversy stems from the backlash against the Maldivian government's suspension of three deputy ministers who posted derogatory remarks on 'X' regarding Prime Minister Modi. The ministers criticized Modi for promoting Lakshadweep as a tourist destination, sparking the online movement #BoycottMaldives. Reports indicate that Indian tourists have begun canceling their trips to the Maldives in response.

EaseMyTrip's co-founder, Prashant Pitti, also emphasized the appeal of Lakshadweep in a social media post on January 4, expressing intentions to offer special promotions to boost tourism in the region.

The diplomatic row intensified as Indian celebrities, including Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, and Sachin Tendulkar, urged people to explore domestic tourist destinations instead of visiting the Maldives. The Maldivian foreign ministry responded, stating that the derogatory remarks made by the suspended ministers on 'X' do not represent the government's official position.

As the situation unfolds, tensions between India and the Maldives continue to rise, with social media playing a pivotal role in shaping public opinion on the matter.