India on Wednesday expressed dismay over the extension of emergency in the Maldives by the embattled Abdulla Yameen regime, saying the delay in the resumption of the political process was likely to affect the process of restoring normalcy in the archipelago.

In a strongly-worded statement, the External Affairs Ministry said the manner in which the emergency was approved by the Majlis (Parliament) was also a matter concern.

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“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 the Maldives,’’ it added.

The MEA said it was important to ensure that all democratic institutions were allowed to function in a fair and transparent manner in accordance with the constitution.

The Yameen government on Tuesday extended emergency, saying the step was warranted due to the threats posed to the national security. It came hours after India hoped the Maldives government would not seek the extension of emergency and allow the political process to resume with immediate effect. The emergency will now remain in force until 22 March.

Official sources said New Delhi was keenly monitoring the developments in the Maldives, especially how the decision to extend emergency was approved by the Majlis (Parliament). Only 38 MPs were present for the vote despite a constitutional provision requiring the attendance of 43 for the vote to take place. The Opposition in the country had boycotted the voting.

Meanwhile, Maldives Foreign Secretary Ahmed Sareer met Indian Ambassador to Maldives Akhilesh Mishra and discussed the ongoing developments in the island. He reassured the Indian envoy that the Yameen regime was committed to working with its international partners, including India.

The Maldives plunged into a crisis with President Yameen declaring a 15-day emergency and arresting the Chief Justice and former President M A Gayoom after the Supreme Court at the beginning of this month termed as unjust the imprisonment of nine MPs and another former President Mohammed Nasheed.