India expresses concern over developments in Maldives

NEW DELHI: India today said it was concerned over recent developments in the Maldives, including the "arrest and manhandling" of former President Mohamed Nasheed, and asked all the involved to resolve their differences within the constitutional framework.

"We are concerned at recent developments in the Maldives, including the arrest and manhandling of former President Nasheed. We urge all concerned to calm the situation and resolve their differences within the constitutional and legal framework of Maldives," Spokesperson of the External Affairs Ministry Syed Akbaruddin said.

India reiterates its commitment to supporting the people and the government of Maldives in their quest for peace, development, prosperity and democracy, he added.

Nasheed, who was arrested yesterday under anti-terrorism laws for allegedly ordering the arrest a senior judge in 2012, was today virtually dragged by the security forces to be presented before the criminal court, which ruled that the Opposition leader will remain in custody until the case against him was complete.