Did Pakistan send 'expired' relief packages to cyclone-hit Sri Lanka? Row after pictures go viral

New Delhi: Pictures of relief packages allegedly sent by Pakistan to flood-ravaged Sri Lanka have drawn immense backlash on social media, with users pointing out that the relief materials sent to the cyclone-hit island nation were expired. Pakistan sent the relief supplies to Sri Lanka, where Cyclone Ditwah has wreaked havoc, as a humanitarian gesture. 

The Pakistan High Commission shared the pictures of the relief packages on the social media platform only to get ridiculed for sending expired materials. Eagle-eyed social users slammed the country after noticing that “EXP: 10/2024” was printed on some of the packets.

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Posting the photographs of the consignment on X, the High Commission said that the packages signify Islamabad’s solidarity with flood-hit Sri Lanka.

In a now-deleted post on X, the Pakistan High Commission in Sri Lanka wrote, "Always standing together. Relief packages from Pakistan have been successfully delivered to assist our brothers and sisters affected by the recent flood in Sri Lanka, which signifies our unwavering solidarity. Pakistan stands with Sri Lanka today and always."

However, no officials from either country have issued any clarification over the claims. TV9 network also does not vouch for the authenticity of the viral pictures.

Pakistan invites backlash

Social media users took a dig at Pakistan, saying instead of disposing in garbage, Pakistan sent its "expired food material to Sri Lanka.

Cyclone Ditwah in S Lanka, India's assistance

Cyclone Ditwah has left a trail of destruction in Sri Lanka, causing severe flooding and leaving over 300 people dead. Meanwhile, India has delivered 53 tonnes of relief material to Sri Lanka via air and sea since November 28 under Operation Sagar Bandhu.

"In the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, which has caused severe flooding, loss of life and widespread disruption across Sri Lanka, India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu on November 28 to provide urgent search and rescue and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) support to our closest maritime neighbour," the Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday.