India expresses dismay over emergency extension in Maldives

Expressing dismay over the extension of the State of Emergency in The Maldives, India said the consequent delay in the resumption of the political process and the continuing suspension of the functioning of democratic institutions, including the judiciary is likely to further delay restoration of normalcy.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Wednesday in an official release, "We are deeply dismayed that the Government of Maldives has extended the State of Emergency for a further 30 days."

"The manner in which the extension of the State of Emergency was approved by the Majlis in contravention of the Constitution of Maldives is also a matter of concern," the MEA added.

The MEA emphasised that it is important to ensure that all democratic institutions are allowed to function in a fair and transparent manner in accordance with the Constitution.

Yesterday, the Maldives Parliament approved the extension of the State of Emergency by 30 days, a day after President Abdulla Yameen sought the extension citing threat to national security and the constitutional crisis in the country.

The opposition leaders boycotted the session and called the extension illegal and unconstitutional.