‘Imperative’ for government to release prisoners: India

India has urged the Maldivian government to release political prisoners as ordered by the Supreme Court in a shock ruling Thursday night.

“In the spirit of democracy and rule of law, it is imperative for all organs of the government of Maldives to respect and abide by the order of the apex court,” reads an external affairs ministry statement released Friday.

“We also hope that the safety and security of the Indian expatriates in Maldives will be ensured by the Maldivian authorities under all circumstances,” it added. “As a close and friendly neighbour, India wishes to see a stable, peaceful and prosperous Maldives. We are closely monitoring the evolving situation.”

The joint opposition has vowed to keep protesting until the ruling is fully enforced. Despite the government saying it will consult with the court “to comply with the ruling in line with proper procedure and the rule of law,” the prisons authority has yet to release any of the high-profile inmates.