New Delhi: India has swiftly dismissed reports circulating in Pakistani media alleging that it denied Pakistan the use of its airspace for sending relief aid to cyclone-hit Sri Lanka. Sources within the Indian government have characterized these reports as "fake news" and propaganda.

The clarification comes in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, which has caused widespread devastation and loss of life in Sri Lanka. Moved by the plight of the Sri Lankan people, Pakistan requested permission to use Indian airspace to transport humanitarian assistance.

According to officials familiar with the matter, Pakistan's request for overflight was received at approximately 1300 hours (Indian Standard Time) on Monday. Recognizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid, India expeditiously processed the request and communicated its approval to Pakistan through official channels by 1730 hours (IST) on the same day. This swift action meant the request was processed within a mere four hours.

Despite granting permission for the aid flight, reports surfaced in Pakistani media claiming that India had denied the request. Indian officials have vehemently refuted these claims, emphasizing that all requests for overflight are handled in accordance with established procedures, international norms, and standard operational, technical, and security assessments. Political considerations, they asserted, play no role in such decisions.

"Pakistani media, as usual, is indulging in propaganda and peddling fake news. These allegations are baseless and misleading," one official stated.

This gesture from India is particularly noteworthy given that Pakistan continues to maintain a ban on Indian airlines from using its airspace. Granting overflight permission for humanitarian aid underscores India's commitment to assisting its neighbors in times of crisis, irrespective of existing political tensions.

India has already dispatched 53 tons of relief material to Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu. This includes emergency rations, tents, blankets, hygiene kits, ready-to-eat food items, medicines, and surgical equipment. The Indian Navy and Air Force are also involved in rescue and relief operations across the island nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his condolences to Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, expressing solidarity and support in the face of the disaster.

India's prompt response to Pakistan's request and its strong condemnation of misinformation highlight its continued commitment to its "Neighbourhood First" policy and its willingness to extend humanitarian assistance, even amidst strained relations. This approach aligns with India's vision for regional security and growth, as well as its role as a reliable partner in the Indian Ocean region. The incident also underscores the complex dynamics of India-Pakistan relations, where humanitarian gestures are often juxtaposed with instances of mistrust and misinformation.