Srinagar, April 17 -- I knew we were in trouble the moment I saw that blue uniform. The traffic cop was glued to his phone, but it wasn't for scrolling Instagram - he was taking pictures. A moment later, my brother confirmed it: "He booked us with a chalan."

And just like that, our idyllic plan to breathe in the spring air at Badam Vaer turned into a thousand-rupee setback. My brother got the message: Pillion rider without crash helmet. Fine: Rs 1000. Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act had officially ruined my mood.

Yes, I knew the rules had tightened in the Valley. My brother had even reminded me to wear a helmet. But I struggle with severe anxiety - the weight of a helmet on my head or anything tight around my neck makes me feel li...