Yesterday I got stuck in one of the worst traffic jams I’ve experienced in Pune, around Sinhgad Road near navale bridge. What should’ve been a routine commute turned into a 4 hour standstill. No movement, no diversions, just frustrated people trapped on the road.
I later found out this was due to an ongoing protest. And look, I get it people protest because things matter to them and the matter being sensitive, needs fast track justice . Fair. That’s part of living in a democracy. But at what point does exercising your right to protest start violating everyone else’s right to simply go about their day?
I’m a physiotherapist, and because of this jam, I had to miss two patient appointments. These aren’t casual cancellations, these are people in pain, people recovering from surgeries, people who actually rely on timely care. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one affected. There must’ve been ambulances delayed, workers missing shifts, and much more, the ripple effect is huge.
So I genuinely want to ask, is blocking major roads really a justified method of protest anymore? Does the impact it creates actually help the cause, or just turn public sentiment against it?
There has to be a better way to be heard without bringing a city to a standstill. Because right now, it just feels like innocent people are being held hostage to make a point.
Curious to hear what others think, especially those who support such protests. Where do we draw the line? Shouldn’t such protests be held outside the very offices of people responsible for the law and order?