‘Indecent’ model show under investigation by Islamic ministry

The Islamic ministry is investigating a beauty pageant that concluded at the Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi resort last week.

Top Model Maldives 2018, the first international competition of its kind to be held in the archipelago, drew criticism over “indecent clothes” worn by the Maldivian models.

The Islamic ministry’s media official told online outlet VFP that both the ministry and police are “looking into how it happened.” He declined to comment any further.

Photos of the show circulating on social media last week triggered a rush of criticism towards the government’s purported commitment to defending Islam and promoting its values.

Ruling party lawmakers last week reiterated allegations that the opposition is conspiring with foreign groups to “wipe out Islam from the Maldives” after an EU electoral follow-up mission noted that its recommendation to allow non-Muslims to vote and stand for office remains unaddressed.

Religion is a hot-button issue in local politics. During past election cycles, former president Mohamed Nasheed was accused of pursuing a secularist agenda that posed an existential threat to the country’s 100 percent Muslim status.

Photo: Top Model Maldives