India and Pakistan clash over Sri Lanka cyclone aid flight permissions
Tensions have risen between India and Pakistan over relief efforts for cyclone-hit Sri Lanka. Pakistan accused India of delaying permission for its humanitarian aid flight, claiming the restrictions hindered operations. India swiftly rejected the allegations, calling them baseless and misleading.
Sri Lanka remains in crisis after Cyclone Ditwah triggered deadly landslides and floods, killing over 200 people and forcing thousands from their homes. The government has declared a national emergency as rescue and recovery efforts continue.
On December 1, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry stated that India was obstructing its humanitarian mission to Sri Lanka. It claimed New Delhi’s partial clearance for a relief flight was 'operationally impractical', preventing timely aid delivery.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) responded sharply, dismissing the accusations as 'ridiculous'. Officials confirmed that Pakistan’s request for overflight permission, submitted at 1 pm, was approved by 5:30 pm the same day. The MEA accused Islamabad of spreading misinformation to undermine India’s relief efforts.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to offer condolences and additional support. Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, India has pledged further assistance, reaffirming its role as the region’s 'First Responder'. President Dissanayake expressed gratitude for India’s ongoing help during the disaster.
The cyclone’s devastation has left Sri Lanka struggling with widespread flooding, collapsed infrastructure, and a rising death toll. Rescue teams are working to reach stranded communities as the country faces one of its worst natural disasters in years.
India has reiterated its commitment to Sri Lanka’s recovery, vowing continued aid under its Vision Mahasagar initiative. The dispute with Pakistan over flight clearances highlights ongoing regional tensions, even as both nations claim to prioritise disaster relief.
Sri Lanka’s government continues to coordinate international support as it deals with the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. The crisis has prompted urgent calls for medical supplies, food, and shelter for those displaced by the storm.
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