Construction of Indian military base begins in Maldives

ChatGPT summary: The construction of an Indian military base in the Maldives has begun on the island of Uthuruthilafalhu. The base is part of a 30-year agreement between the Maldivian Defense Ministry and India, allowing India to develop and manage a dockyard and harbor on the island. Although referred to as a harbor and dockyard, the facility has features of a military base, raising concerns about the Maldives' sovereignty. The agreement permits Indian soldiers to carry firearms on the island. The management of the facilities will be handled by a joint committee with equal representation from both the Indian and Maldivian militaries. Details of the agreement have been kept secret from the Maldivian parliament, despite an order from the Information Commissioner to disclose some information. The presence of Indian soldiers in various locations in the Maldives has led to calls for their removal, as it is seen as undermining Maldivian sovereignty. The construction of the military base has further amplified concerns about the long-term effects on the nation's independence and security. FULL STORY from The Maldives Journal