Maldivian Boy Succumbs to Delayed Transfer from Vilingili to Male

In a heart breaking incident involving the tragic death of a 13-year-old, stemming from a delay in medical evacuation. Allegedly, the Maldivian government hesitated to utilize Indian choppers, leading to the young schoolboy’s demise at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in the Maldivan capital, as reported by the Sun Online outlet.

The government hospital confirmed the 13-year-old’s passing at 11:10 am on a Saturday. However, the report indicated a reluctance to disclose the specific cause of death. Regrettably, the young boy succumbed within two days of his family expressing concerns about the delayed transfer from Vilingili to Male.

India maintains a deployment of approximately 89 personnel, including medical staff, responsible for operating three aircraft—two naval choppers and a Dornier aircraft—to patrol the expansive maritime territory of the archipelago. The destiny of Indian choppers and aircraft hangs in the balance due to the Maldivian government’s insistence on expelling Indian military personnel overseeing operations and maintenance.

President Mohamed Muizzu has escalated tensions by calling for the withdrawal of Indian troops by March 15, despite ongoing negotiations to find a viable solution. The controversy surrounding the boy’s tragic death intensified as Maldives Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan defended the decision to abstain from using Indian choppers, citing that 93 percent of evacuations were still conducted by Maldivian Airlines.

Ghassan emphasized that standard operating procedures for medical operations do not mandate notifying or seeking permission from the President. This statement, conveyed via social media amidst growing criticisms, underscores strained relations between India and the Maldives. Muizzu assumed power last September, vowing to foster “strong ties” with China. His recent state visit to Beijing marked a significant diplomatic milestone since taking office.