Male’, Maldives – Former Minister of Home Affairs, Umar Naseer has claimed that there are currently about 200 Indian soldiers stationed in three different regions of the Maldives.
In a National Day message he sent to the nation, Umar Naseer said so adding that the National Day is the day which the country succeeded over the Portuguese army and that while they came with swords and guns, invaders of the modern day come with more indirect tactics up their sleeves.
“Today, as we speak, there are 200 Indian soldiers stationed in three different regions of the country. This is a big obstacle in the way of our independence. This has to be stopped.” He said.
Umar’s claim comes as the defense ministry of Maldives refuses to reveal the number of Indian soldiers based in the country, and amidst anti campaign against the Indian army being stationed in Maldives.
Many rumors have also emerged regarding the army’s presence in the country, among which some are that India is planning to operate an army base out of Maldives – something which the Maldivian government has refuted, while assuring that no steps will be taken to risk the sovereignty of the country.
