♤ India’s concern is that China, with its strategic ally Pakistan, could use the Maldives as a

strategic choke point for India

♤ Country's former President Mohamed Nasheed has more than once even commented on Maldives' 'pro-China' tilt.

6.5.1. Options for India

♤ In the crisis ensued, in February 2018, since the judicial verdict and followed by announcements by President Yameen of emergency, there were calls for India to intervene. Global and regional commentary on the issue has focused on what India's options are for intervening in the Maldives.

♤ Former President Mohamed Nasheed, who is in exile in Sri Lanka, requested India to send an envoy, backed by its military, to release the judges and political prisoners.