In the wake of escalating tensions between India and the Maldives, a social media uproar has emerged under the hashtag #BoycottMaldives. This movement has led to a significant number of Indians cancelling their planned trips to the tropical paradise, citing concerns over alleged racism and a call to support domestic tourism.
Live TV
This scenario raises questions about the role of travel insurance in mitigating such losses.
Contrary to expectations, travel insurance may not provide the safety net some travellers hope for in the event of self-cancellations related to the #BoycottMaldives movement.
InsuranceDekho, a major travel insurance provider, announced an immediate suspension of travel insurance services for those planning trips to the Maldives.
In a statement, a spokesperson for InsuranceDekho expressed solidarity with fellow Indians, emphasising the importance of standing united and aligning with the country's interests. The company encouraged travellers to explore the diverse beauty of India, pointing to destinations like Lakshadweep.
Similar actions were reportedly taken by other insurers, with Square Insurance also ceasing the issuance of travel insurance for Maldives-bound travellers.
Amrish Dubey, Vice President of Travel Insurance at TATA AIG General Insurance, shed light on the insurance implications for those who decide to cancel their Maldives trips.
According to Dubey, self-cancellations are typically not covered by insurance policies.
While travel insurance does offer coverage for a wide range of cancellation reasons such as hospitalisation, injury, flight cancellations by airlines, and natural catastrophic events, it is unlikely to extend to self-cancellations for reasons related to the #BoycottMaldives campaign.
Dubey urged prospective policy buyers to thoroughly review policy documents and understand the coverage offered before making decisions. He emphasised that insurance claims for self-cancelled trips to the Maldives are unlikely to be admissible under standard policy terms.
ALSO READ | Israel begins work on desalination in Lakshadweep islands amid India-Maldives diplomatic row
