Islamabad/Columbo: The Pakistan High Commission in Sri Lanka drew sharp criticism on Tuesday after posting images of relief packages sent to assist communities affected by severe floods. The photos, shared on X, showed stacks of food and essential supplies, with the High Commission describing the aid as a gesture of “unwavering solidarity” with Sri Lankans.
However, social media users were quick to point out what they claimed were expiry dates of October 2024 printed on several packets. The post’s comment section soon filled with anger and mockery, with many alleging that Pakistan had attempted to offload expired goods in the name of humanitarian relief. One user accused Pakistan of “disposing garbage,” while another asked whether the country had “any shame” for sending out-of-date food items.
Some users also hinted at inconsistencies in the visuals. A commenter claimed the biscuits visible in the photos appeared to be Sri Lankan-made, questioning whether the packages were genuinely dispatched from Pakistan. The claim added another layer of confusion to the controversy.
Amid the online uproar, India addressed reports suggesting it had denied Pakistan the use of Indian airspace to transport the relief materials. Official sources clarified that Pakistan’s overflight request was received around 1 pm on Monday and was approved “expeditiously.” Clearance was communicated via diplomatic channels by 5.30 pm the same day, officials said.
The issue has sparked a wider debate over transparency and accountability in international relief efforts, with both the authenticity and quality of the aid now under public scrutiny.
