MakeMyTrip has reported a significant surge in tourism interest in Lakshadweep following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit, with on-platform searches for the Union Territory witnessing a remarkable 3,400 per cent increase. The boost in tourism comes in the aftermath of a controversy involving Maldivian politicians who mocked PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep. The Maldives government, however, has refuted the derogatory remarks, emphasising that they do not reflect the official stance of Male.
In a related development, EaseMyTrip, declared the suspension of all flight bookings to the Maldives in response to the controversy. Nishant Pitti, Founder, EaseMyTrip, in a post on 8 January, 2024, cited the decision as an act of solidarity with the nation. "In solidarity with our nation, EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings. #TravelUpdate #SupportingNation," tweeted Nishant Pitti.