Did India Really Deny Overflight Clearance to Pakistan's Humanitarian Flights?
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Synopsis
India has emphatically challenged Pakistan's claims of a denied overflight clearance for humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka, deeming the statement as absurd and a means of spreading misinformation. Amid severe weather conditions in Sri Lanka, India remains committed to supporting the nation during this crisis.
Key Takeaways
- India rejects Pakistan's overflight claims.
- MEA describes the claims as misinformation.
- Operation Sagar Bandhu launched for Sri Lanka.
- 1.4 million affected by severe weather in Sri Lanka.
- India committed to aiding Sri Lanka during crisis.
New Delhi, Dec 2 (NationPress) India expressed strong disapproval on Tuesday regarding Pakistan's allegations that New Delhi had denied overflight clearance for Pakistani aircraft tasked with delivering humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) characterized the statement from the Pakistan Foreign Office (PFO) as “ridiculous” and an additional attempt to “spread anti-India misinformation.”
Responding to inquiries about Pakistan's claims concerning overflight clearance, the MEA clarified that India had swiftly processed Pakistan's request and granted the necessary overflight permissions.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “We reject the ridiculous statement made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, which is yet another attempt to spread anti-India misinformation.”
He elaborated, “The request for overflight clearance for Pakistani aircraft carrying humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka was received at the High Commission of India in Islamabad around 1300 hrs on December 01, 2025. Given the urgency of the humanitarian assistance, the Government of India processed the request promptly the same day, granting overflight permission as per the proposed itinerary at 1730 hrs on December 01, 2025.”
The MEA reiterated India's commitment to supporting the people of Sri Lanka during these challenging times through all available means.
India's firm response followed Pakistan's Foreign Office claims earlier on Tuesday, which indicated that India had obstructed the humanitarian assistance being sent from Pakistan to Sri Lanka, and that the Pakistani aircraft carrying this assistance had faced delays exceeding 60 hours, as reported by Pakistan's leading daily, Dawn.
Sri Lanka has been grappling with severe weather phenomena, including flash floods and landslides triggered by Cyclone Ditwah. The death toll from the severe weather conditions in Sri Lanka has climbed to 410, according to the Daily Mirror, citing the Disaster Management Centre (DMC).
As per the latest updates, 1.4 million individuals from approximately 407,594 families have been affected, as the island nation continues to endure floods, landslides, and extreme weather conditions.
On November 28, India initiated Operation Sagar Bandhu to provide immediate search, rescue, and humanitarian assistance in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, which caused flooding, loss of life, and widespread disruption across the island.
India has affirmed its steadfast support for the people of Sri Lanka, ensuring rapid, sustainable, and coordinated assistance across the affected regions through Operation Sagar Bandhu.
Point of View
Clarity and truth are paramount. The recent back-and-forth between India and Pakistan regarding overflight permissions sheds light on the complexities of regional diplomacy. It is crucial for nations to prioritize humanitarian aid over political rhetoric, ensuring that aid reaches those in desperate need, especially in times of crisis.
NationPress
02/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Pakistan's claim regarding overflight clearance?
Pakistan claimed that India denied overflight clearance to its aircraft carrying humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka.
How did India respond to Pakistan's allegations?
India's Ministry of External Affairs described Pakistan's claims as 'ridiculous' and asserted that the request for overflight clearance was processed swiftly.
What is Operation Sagar Bandhu?
Operation Sagar Bandhu is an initiative launched by India to provide urgent humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
What humanitarian crisis is Sri Lanka currently facing?
Sri Lanka is currently dealing with severe weather conditions, including floods and landslides, resulting from Cyclone Ditwah, affecting over 1.4 million people.
How many lives have been lost due to the recent weather conditions in Sri Lanka?
The death toll from the severe weather in Sri Lanka has risen to 410, as reported by local media.
