India has categorically denied allegations by Pakistan that it denied airspace clearance for a Pakistani relief flight to Sri Lanka. Government sources described the claims as “baseless and misleading,” highlighting the swift processing of Pakistan’s request. Islamabad submitted its overflight application on Monday at 1:00 PM IST, seeking clearance for the same day. India, recognizing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance to cyclone-affected Sri Lanka, processed the request with exceptional speed. The clearance was granted and communicated to Pakistani authorities by 5:30 PM IST, demonstrating a processing time of approximately four hours. This approval was granted on humanitarian grounds, despite Pakistan’s known restrictions on Indian flights. Officials have characterized the Pakistani media’s reports as typical propaganda and the dissemination of fake news. They stressed that all overflight and transit requests adhere to established international procedures and norms. Sri Lanka is currently enduring severe consequences from Cyclone Ditwah, including widespread landslides and floods that have claimed over 300 lives. India’s ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ is underway to provide comprehensive support. The Prime Minister has conveyed his condolences and pledged India’s full assistance. India has already delivered 53 tonnes of relief materials to Sri Lanka via air and sea since November 28. The repatriation of over 2,000 Indian citizens from the island nation has also been successfully accomplished. NDRF teams are actively involved in search and rescue efforts in the most severely affected areas, offering vital assistance to flood victims and ensuring their immediate safety. More than 150 individuals have been rescued and supported through these continuous operations.
