India has said it is deeply dismayed that the Maldives government has extended the state of emergency for a further 30 days.

In a press release, the Ministry of External Affairs said the manner in which the extension of the state of emergency was approved by the parliament in contravention of the Maldives Constitution is also a matter of concern.

“The consequent delay in the resumption of the political process and the continuing suspension of the functioning of democratic institutions including the judiciary is likely to further delay restoration of normalcy in Maldives,” reads the statement.

It noted the importance of ensuring that "all democratic institutions are allowed to function in a fair and transparent manner in accordance with the Constitution.”

In an earlier press release right before the parliament vote, the ministry said it expects Maldives to not seek an extension of the state of emergency.