A major online controversy has erupted over humanitarian aid sent by Pakistan to Sri Lanka in the wake of the devastating Cyclone Ditwah. The dispute centres on viral social media claims that the relief packages contained expired food items, leading to accusations of insensitivity and sparking a fresh debate about diplomatic protocols during crises.
The Viral Post and the Allegations
The storm began when the Pakistan High Commission posted on X (formerly Twitter), celebrating its solidarity with Sri Lanka. The now-deleted post, dated around December 2, 2025, stated, "Always standing together! Relief packages from Pakistan have been successfully delivered to assist our brothers and sisters affected by the recent floods in Sri Lanka, which signifies our unwavering solidarity."
However, sharp-eyed internet users quickly zoomed in on the accompanying photo of the relief packages. They alleged that the printed expiry dates on the food packets visible in the image showed October 2024, meaning the items were over a month past their use-by date. The online community reacted with outrage, with many accusing Pakistan of "disposing of garbage" under the guise of aid to a nation grappling with a severe natural disaster.
A Crisis of Unprecedented Scale
The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of a catastrophic humanitarian situation in Sri Lanka. Triggered by torrential monsoon rains and two tropical cyclones, widespread flooding and landslides have ravaged the island nation and parts of Southeast Asia.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has declared a state of emergency, calling it "the most challenging natural disaster in our history." The official toll is staggering: at least 390 people have lost their lives, with 352 others still reported missing. The scale of destruction has overwhelmed local resources, making international aid crucial.
Historical Echoes and Online Mockery
This is not the first time Pakistan's relief efforts have landed in a diplomatic quandary. During the 2015 Nepal earthquake, Pakistan faced severe criticism for sending beef-based ready-to-eat meals to the predominantly Hindu nation, an act widely perceived as culturally insensitive.
In the current case, the swift deletion of the X post by the Pakistan High Commission only added fuel to the fire, making the screenshot more viral. The internet had a field day, with memes and sarcastic comments flooding social media platforms. One user humorously advised the High Commission, "Paijaan, comments mat kholna" (Brother, don't open the comments), highlighting the anticipated backlash. Interestingly, some users countered the narrative, pointing out that the biscuits shown in the photo were of a Sri Lankan brand, adding another layer of confusion to the incident.
The core issues raised by netizens go beyond just expired goods. They touch upon:
- Accountability in Aid: Ensuring relief material is safe, usable, and meets basic quality standards.
- Cultural and Ethical Sensitivity: Respecting the recipient nation's circumstances and needs during vulnerability.
- Diplomatic Communication: The role of social media in amplifying and sometimes complicating international relations.
While the authenticity of the viral claims regarding the expiry dates is now a matter of online debate, the incident has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the relief efforts. It underscores how, in the digital age, humanitarian assistance is scrutinized not just on the ground but also in the global court of public opinion on social media.
