Pahalgam’s taxi stand, where there is usually no space to stand in the months of June and July due to tourist crowd – now stands empty.

A controversial plan to supply Pakistan with 30 J-35A stealth fighters at a discounted price has ignited criticism across Chinese social media. Citizens question the financial prudence and strategic wisdom of exporting an unproven, fifth-generation aircraft, especially given Pakistan’s payment history and China’s own needs. The deal raises concerns about subsidizing a client state with an unfinished product.

The council, mandated to meet biannually under Rule 215 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, last held a session on April 3, 2023.