India Rejects Pakistan’s “Baseless” Airspace Claims for Sri Lanka Aid Mission

India has strongly dismissed Pakistan’s allegations that New Delhi denied airspace clearance for an aid flight heading to flood-hit Sri Lanka, calling the reports “baseless and misleading.” Officials confirmed that India approved the overflight permission quickly and through official channels.

India Granted Airspace Permission Within 4 Hours

According to Indian officials, Pakistan submitted a request around 1:00 PM (IST) on Monday seeking same-day clearance to use Indian airspace for its relief mission to Sri Lanka.

Recognizing the humanitarian purpose, India processed the request on priority and granted formal approval by 5:30 PM (IST)—within a short four-hour notice period.
Officials highlighted that this decision was made purely on humanitarian grounds, even though Pakistan continues to restrict Indian airlines from using its own airspace.

India Rejects Pakistan’s Media Reports

Indian authorities criticised claims by several Pakistani media outlets stating that India refused the request. Officials labelled these allegations as false, misleading, and completely unfounded.

Sri Lanka Devastated by Cyclone Ditwah

Sri Lanka is currently battling severe flooding caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
More than 334 people have lost their lives, and rising waters continue to affect major parts of Colombo and nearby regions.

India Sends 53 Tons of Relief Under Operation Sagar Bandhu

As part of Operation Sagar Bandhu, India has delivered 53 tons of emergency assistance to help Sri Lanka manage the crisis. This includes:

Relief Delivered So Far

• 9.5 tons of essential supplies from two Indian Navy ships docked in Colombo

• 31.5 tons transported by three Indian Air Force aircraft, including:

  • Tents and tarpaulins

  • Blankets and hygiene kits

  • Ready-to-eat food items

  • Medicines and surgical tools

  • Two BHISHM cubes and a five-member medical team

• 80 members of the NDRF Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams to support on-ground rescue operations

• An additional 12 tons of relief materials via INS Sukanya at Trincomalee

With all shipments combined, India has provided 53 tons of humanitarian relief to Sri Lanka.