Srinagar, Aug. 16 -- The crisis began with raids that uncovered hundreds of kilograms of rotten and unlabelled meat. Chicken stored without refrigeration, decomposed mutton, and shipments lacking expiry dates revealed serious gaps in monitoring. Authorities have promised zero tolerance, but reactive measures alone cannot prevent future problems.

Traders note that while online campaign raised awareness, the real solution lies in stronger, systematic safeguards. Occasional inspections or viral outrage are not enough when unsafe products can still slip into markets unnoticed. Residents, meanwhile, remain cautious, unsure which vendors are trustworthy and which are cutting corners.

The frozen meat supply chain has come under particular scru...