I ENDORSE the views of Prof Sharif Al Mujahid (Jan 29). Indeed strikes and sit-ins blatantly violate the inviolable rights of citizens, in general, and of students, in particular.

Every now and then a call is given by some party for a strike or a day of mourning and students’ precious time and money is wasted. The media, the politicians and even government functionaries take it for granted and do not make efforts to safeguard the rights of the people.

On Jan 29, I visited the Savings Centre, which is a government-owned oganisation, but found it closed. I think people are now fed up with these strikes and they should raise their voice to defend their right to free movement, education and, above all, life.

I request all NGOs, politicians, traders and the media to support this view and condemn these strikes. Only strikes, which do not disturb and forcibly close and consequently educational institutions should be allowed.

Anybody violating these norms of protest should be brought to book and punished. Let us be bold in this respect and fail the next call for strike.

Khayyam Durrani

Karachi

Published in Dawn February 2nd , 2015

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