KARACHI, Sept 6: The overdoing of security measures around the Sindh Assembly building, even when it is not in session, is causing a lot of inconvenience to general public and commuters.

Ever since authorities decided to block Court Road by putting empty containers for ‘security reasons’ from the Art Council end, and also setting up road blocks along the exit gate of the assembly building, public transport cannot ply through. Owing to diversion of busses and other public transport means, the adjacent roads get choked. However, official vehicles are allowed to ply.

On Saturday, the problem compounded when an old tree fell on the narrow passage.

People have questioned the right of the authorities to deny them freedom of movement while the assembly is in session. They also don’t understand the wisdom of keeping the assembly besieged even on Saturdays and Sundays when it is not in session.

Security personnel posted at the Court Road’s narrow entry point, at the Art Council roundabout, also humiliate people walking on the pavement or those who want to pass through, either for going to the assembly building or to the government offices located nearby.

The harassed people expect the high court to take suo motu notice of this arbitrary action and ensure opening of the road because they believe that the measures negate the perception that democracy means government of the people, by the people and for the people.

Many people who have been subjected to humiliation complained that denying general public freedom of movement on Court Road tantamount to an attempt to isolate this institution from people in the process of democratic dispensation.