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India Approves Pakistan’s Aid Overflights to Sri Lanka as Photos Trigger Expired-Supplies Uproar

Indian officials say Pakistan’s December 1 overflight request was approved in about four hours, contradicting reports that access was denied.

Overview

  • Pakistan sought to route humanitarian flights to flood-hit Sri Lanka through Indian airspace, according to Indian officials cited by Aaj Tak.
  • New Delhi says the formal request arrived around 1 p.m. IST on December 1 and clearance was communicated via official channels by about 5:30 p.m. the same day.
  • Images posted by the Pakistani High Commission showing delivered relief displayed August 2022 manufacturing dates with a stated two-year use window, drawing allegations that items were past recommended use; the posts were later deleted.
  • Sri Lanka has declared a national emergency after Cyclone Dithvah, with more than 355 deaths reported, 366 people missing, and large-scale displacement across 25 districts.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and pledged additional assistance under India’s ongoing relief efforts.