India to build new naval base close to Maldives
India has unveiled plans to establish a new naval base INS Jatayu, off its south-west coast in close proximity to the Maldives, amidst heightened tensions between New Delhi and the island nation.
The Indian Navy disclosed on Saturday its intention to build the base on Minicoy, the southernmost island within the Lakshadweep archipelago, situated approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) north of the Maldives. A more comprehensive plan for this strategic initiative is scheduled for publication on Wednesday.
The establishment of INS Jatayu aligns with India's broader policy to gradually enhance security infrastructure on these strategically significant islands. India already maintains a base in the Lakshadweeps, known as INS Dweeprakshak, located on Kavaratti.
Tensions between India and the Maldives have escalated since the assumption of office by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu last year. Muizzu's decision to visit China before India stirred controversy, with the president asserting that Maldives' size should not be a pretext for bullying. This was seen as a response to social media calls in India for a boycott of Maldives after three deputy ministers from the island nation posted derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leading to their subsequent suspension.
In February, Muizzu requested India to replace military personnel managing humanitarian service planes in the Maldives with civilian technical staff. Approximately 75 Indian military personnel are currently deployed in the Maldives, engaged in activities such as transporting patients from remote islands and conducting sea rescues. This move underscores the evolving dynamics in the region and the complex interplay between diplomatic relations and military presence.
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