Questions Raised Over Pakistan Aid kits to Sri Lanka, Citizens Say – “Insult to Humanity”
Relief materials sent by Pakistan to Sri Lanka, affected by cyclones and floods in 2025, have become the center of controversy. Most of the food items and first Pakistan aid kits included in the aid were expired, as shown in pictures circulating on social media. Several packets were marked “Expired October 2024,” prompting local citizens and officials to describe the assistance as an “insult to humanity.” The incident has raised questions over Pakistan’s international credibility, with many critics calling it a “show of aid” rather than genuine help.
Major Lapse in Transparency
The relief package sent by Pakistan included food, dry rations, first Pakistan aid kits, and other essential items, but their expiry date was October 2024, nearly a year before the aid actually reached Sri Lanka. Pakistan’s High Commission shared pictures of the aid on social media, which were soon deleted. After evidence of expired items went viral online, criticism surged. Sri Lankan authorities have raised the issue with Pakistan through both formal and informal channels. The situation has severely impacted the credibility and perceived sincerity of the relief efforts.
Public and Official Outrage
Sri Lankan citizens and officials expressed strong anger over receiving substandard materials like expired food and medical supplies during a natural disaster. Affected individuals termed it “a deceit under the guise of aid,” and the incident has faced widespread condemnation on social media. Experts analyzing the matter suggested that this was likely not an accidental oversight but rather “politics of showmanship,” aimed at image-building rather than genuine humanitarian assistance.
Reminder of Previous Relief Controversies
This is not the first time Pakistan has faced criticism for its relief efforts. In 2023, aid sent by Pakistan to Turkey also sparked controversy, with allegations of disorganized and stored materials being sent. These incidents highlight significant shortcomings in Pakistan’s transparency and quality control in relief diplomacy, tarnishing its image both in affected countries and internationally.
India’s Aid vs. Pakistan’s Controversial Assistance
Meanwhile, India has played an active role in disaster relief in Sri Lanka. Under “Operation Sagar Bandhu,” India provided timely relief materials and search-and-rescue teams. India’s assistance has been widely praised for its punctuality, transparency, and quality, serving as a benchmark for humanitarian aid. In contrast, Pakistan’s aid remained controversial and is being perceived more as a political move than genuine help. This comparison underscores the stark differences in regional diplomacy and humanitarian strategies.
International Reaction and Challenge for Pakistan
In addition to the Sri Lankan government, the international community has strongly criticized Pakistan’s move. Sending expired relief materials is not only against humanitarian principles but also undermines the spirit of assistance to a crisis-hit nation. Pakistan has yet to issue an official response. The incident has emerged as a challenge for Pakistan to reform its relief diplomacy and restore credibility. Meanwhile, public outrage in Sri Lanka remains high, with strong reactions continuing to circulate on social media.
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