Victory Day in the Maldives is an annual observance celebrated on the 3rd of November. This public holiday holds immense national significance, commemorating the victory of the Maldivian security forces over a group of mercenaries who attempted a coup d’etat to overthrow the Maldivian government in 1988. The failed coup attempt was led by a group of Maldivian militants with support from a Sri Lankan militant group, the People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE).
The course of the coup was altered by the arrival of the Indian Army, known as 'Operation Cactus'. Having intervened at the request of the then Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, Indian forces swiftly quelled the insurrection, resulting in the arrest of the invaders. Significantly, all Indian soldiers came back safe, making the operation a major success. The swift and fierce reaction of the Indian army and the courageous response of the Maldivian security forces protect the sovereignty of the Maldives. The day is therefore seen as a testament to the bravery of the Maldivian forces and their Indian allies.
Victory Day is celebrated with much patriotism and vivacity throughout the Maldives. The celebrations often include parades by the Maldivian National Defense Force and the Maldives Police Service, along with patriotic songs and flag-hoisting ceremonies. It's a day for the Maldivians to pay their respects to the heroes who defended their country in the face of an armed insurrection. This day also serves to remind Maldivian citizens of the importance of unity, courage, and the resolve to protect the sovereignty of their island nation.