Outsiders making 'comments' on our PM not accepted: Sharad Pawar

Mumbai: Sharad Pawar, chief of the Nationalist Congress Party, made a curious reaction to alleged derogatory remarks by Maldivian leaders against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Pawar said on Tuesday that anyone from any other country commenting against PM Modi cannot be accepted, India Today reported.

Pawar told Asian News International that Modi is the Prime Minister of India. One must respect the PM’s post and India won’t accept anything against the PM from outside the country.

“..if anyone from any other country holding any position makes such comments on our PM, we won't accept it,” the NCP leader said.

Following some alleged derogatory remarks by Maldivian ministers against Prime Minister Modi, who was on a visit to Lakshadweep recently, a diplomatic row erupted.

Following an uproar, the Maldivian government suspended three of its ministers, namely Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid.

Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, Munu Mahawar, met Maldivian Foreign Ministry officials on Monday to lodge a strong protest against comments. A few hours later, the Indian External Affairs Ministry summoned Maldivian envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb.

Meanwhile, the Israeli embassy in India shifted its attention by advocating for Lakshadweep tourism.

The Israeli embassy, advocating for the picturesque Lakshadweep islands, showcased their interest in contributing to the desalination program at the government's request.

Through their official X handle, the embassy said, "We were in #Lakshadweep last year upon the federal government's request to initiate the desalination program. Israel is ready to commence working on this project tomorrow. For those who are yet to witness the pristine and majestic underwater beauty of #lakshadweepislands, here are a few pictures showing this island's enchanting allure."