Sri Lanka, devastated by Cyclone Ditvah, is facing heavy floods and humanitarian crisis these days. Meanwhile, a big controversy has arisen in Colombo regarding the relief material sent by Pakistan. Political parties and social media in Sri Lanka are alleging that the humanitarian aid sent by Pakistan contains a large amount of expired goods.
Opposition leaders and local organizations in Sri Lanka issued a strong statement saying that a part of the relief material had expired. They allege that at a time when Sri Lanka was battling floods, Pakistan sent such goods in the name of humanitarian aid which had to be removed before distribution.
Ruckus on social media
Sri Lankan leaders said that the purpose of the aid sent in times of crisis is to save people’s lives, not to put them in further danger.
It is unacceptable and deeply disrespectful that expired relief goods have been sent to #SriLanka at a moment when our people are suffering from the worst floods in years. Humanitarian aid is meant to protect lives, not endanger them.
Sri Lankans appreciate genuine friendship, https://t.co/UvSWTH96ct pic.twitter.com/ITBgVhuBoN
— Barath Arulsamy (@BarathArulsamy) December 2, 2025
He has demanded immediate clarification, accountability and replacement of expired material. The hashtag #negligence is trending on social media. Many users are also criticizing it.
Situation serious in Sri Lanka, 11 lakh affected, 370 people missing
The situation is very bad in Sri Lanka due to Cyclone Ditvaha. 334 deaths confirmed, 370 people missing, more than 11 lakh people affected and about 2 lakh people forced to live in shelters. India has also sent 53 tonnes of relief material under Operation Sagar Bandhu, which includes tents, medicines, ready-to-eat food, tarpaulin, medical team and special unit of NDRF.
India approved overflight in 4 hours
Interestingly, this same Pakistani flight was allowed by India to pass through its airspace within just four hours. This permission was given on humanitarian grounds, because the flight was said to be carrying relief material for Sri Lanka.
In a statement issued by the government, it was said that Pakistan had sent a request for overflight at 1 pm and it was immediately approved keeping in mind the humanitarian aid. Overflight means passing over a country without landing there.
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