Several political parties have condemned the violent and aggressive disruption of the International Yoga Day event held at the National Stadium on June 21.
Parties to release statements against the violent act include the main ruling party, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), as well as Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) and Maldives Third-Way Democrats (MTD).
In its statement, MDP said it unequivocally condemns the violent attack on the Yoga Day event, stating these types of egregious and violent acts have no place in a peaceful democratic society. MDP welcomed the government’s decision to launch a serious investigation into the matter and applauded the prompt actions taken thus far including the arrests. MDP expressed hope that the process of justice is swift for those responsible.
Meanwhile, DRP also condemned the violent act and called on the government to ensure a safer environment for foreign diplomats in the country. DRP noted the Maldives has always been known as a peaceful and hospitable nation and called on authorities to ensure this reputation stays intact by delivering swift justice to those involved in the crime.
Furthermore, MTD also condemned the violent attack on the Yoga Day event, and accused former President Abdulla Yameen and his party, the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), of masterminding the attack. MTD stated former President Yameen’s bias towards India has been taken to an extreme this year by encouraging religious groups against India after the India Out campaign failed to keep up the momentum and public support in the Maldives. MTD praised the prompt actions taken by the government regarding the matter and called upon the government to ensure these types of incidents will not repeat in the future.
The International Yoga Day event was held on June 21 at the National Stadium by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment and the Indian High Commission in the Maldives. Youth Minister Ahmed Mahloof, Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives Munu Mahawar, and foreign diplomats attended the event. Several individuals had gathered nearby to protest the event and later broke through the police barricades and entered the stadium. The protesters damaged some items in the area and witnesses said some participants were attacked.
Maldives Police Service (MPS) initially arrested six individuals in relation to the attack. However, PSM News understands another three people have been arrested in relation to the incident, including former Parliamentarian Mohamed Ismail. The case is under investigation by the Serious and Organised Crime Department of MPS.