MakeMyTrip reported a staggering 3,400% surge in searches related to Lakshadweep post-Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, announcing plans for a dedicated campaign promoting India’s exquisite beaches. Despite this, social media users urged the company to halt Maldives bookings due to derogatory remarks made by certain Maldivian ministers against PM Modi.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), MakeMyTrip stated, ‘Since the Honorable PM’s visit, we’ve noticed a 3400% spike in on-platform searches for Lakshadweep.’ They continued, ‘This growing interest in Indian beaches has motivated us to launch a ‘Beaches of India’ campaign on our platform, offering discounts to encourage travellers to explore our stunning coastal gems. Stay tuned for more!’
#WATCH | On the row over Maldives MP's post on PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep, Raj Rishi Singh, Chief Marketing and Business Officer, MakeMyTrip says "Lakshadweep has seen a remarkable 3400% increase in on-platform searches ever since PM's visit. This inspired us to build a… pic.twitter.com/nI901KeWbo
— NewsMobile (@NewsMobileIndia) January 8, 2024
Following this announcement, the post garnered over 3,000 views within an hour, accompanied by a rising chorus from users demanding the removal of Maldives as a destination from the platform.
Earlier today, Prashant Pitti, the co-founder and Executive Director of EaseMyTrip, declared the indefinite suspension of bookings to the Maldives.
The controversy arose from comments made by three now-suspended Maldivian ministers regarding PM Modi, coinciding with President Mohamed Muizzu’s departure for China on his inaugural state visit from January 8-12. This move deviates from the typical tradition of most Maldivian leaders choosing New Delhi as their primary international visit.