India has forcefully dismissed Pakistan’s allegation that New Delhi denied its aircraft overflight clearance to deliver relief to cyclone-hit Sri Lanka. Official records show India approved the request within hours, contradicting Pakistan’s accusations. New Delhi called Islamabad’s claim “ridiculous” and “another attempt to spread anti-India misinformation” amid a major humanitarian crisis.
India Calls Out Pakistan’s Misinformation, Sets Record Straight
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) strongly rebutted Pakistan’s statement accusing New Delhi of blocking humanitarian supplies to Sri Lanka. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified that the overflight request was received at 1 p.m. on December 1 and approved the same day by 5:30 p.m., reflecting India’s urgency and commitment to aiding Sri Lanka.
Calling Pakistan’s accusation “yet another attempt to spread anti-India misinformation,” Mr. Jaiswal said India acted swiftly “given the urgency of the humanitarian situation.” He added that India remains committed to helping Sri Lanka “through all available means,” including its ongoing Operation Sagar Bandhu relief mission.
Fact’s that counter Pakistan’s allegation
- Pakistan’s claim: India delayed overflight clearance for more than 60 hours
- India’s record: Request received at 1 p.m., approved by 5:30 p.m. on the same day
- MEA’s response: Pakistan’s statement termed “ridiculous” and “misinformation”
- Reality: No delay from India clearance granted as per Pakistan’s own itinerary
- India’s priority: Immediate humanitarian support to cyclone-hit Sri Lanka
- Pakistan’s narrative: Accusations without factual basis, contradicting recorded timelines
- Ground situation: Sri Lanka facing catastrophic floods, with at least 410 dead and 336 missing
India’s swift approval and transparent timeline show a clear commitment to Sri Lanka’s relief efforts. Pakistan’s claims, contradicted by official records, have raised serious questions about the motives behind its statements. As India continues its large-scale Operation Sagar Bandhu, its actions, not accusations, reflect genuine regional leadership in times of crisis.
