Lord Hardinge vs Mohamed Muizzu

Lord Hardinge served as Viceroy of India from 1910 to 1916, a period that included the outbreak of World War I. He oversaw India's significant contribution to the war effort, including the deployment of Indian troops to Europe and the Middle East, and managed the resulting economic and political strains.

Lord Hardinge announced the transfer of the capital of British India from Calcutta to Delhi at the Delhi Durbar in 1911. This decision was intended to strengthen British rule by associating with Mughal heritage and to better administer the northern regions. The new capital was inaugurated in 1931.

Lord Hardinge's government faced a wave of revolutionary activities, including the assassination attempt on him in 1912 (the Delhi Conspiracy). He responded with repressive measures, including the Defence of India Act 1915, which gave the government sweeping powers to detain suspects without trial.

Lord Hardinge was the target of a bomb attack during a state procession in Delhi on December 23, 1912. The attack, carried out by Indian revolutionaries, killed his servant and injured Hardinge. He survived but was severely wounded. The event intensified British crackdown on revolutionary groups.

Muizzu was elected President, defeating incumbent Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. His campaign focused on reducing Indian influence and strengthening ties with China, marking a significant shift in Maldivian foreign policy.

Muizzu prioritized China relations, signing agreements on infrastructure and trade. He visited China early in his term, signaling a pivot away from India, which had been the Maldives' traditional ally.

Muizzu's government formally requested the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives, straining bilateral relations. The move was part of his 'India Out' campaign promise.

Muizzu signed a free trade agreement with China, aiming to boost economic ties and reduce dependence on India. The agreement was criticized by opposition parties as potentially compromising Maldivian sovereignty.