KARACHI:
Every year on August 14, Pakistan celebrates Independence Day with flags, speeches, songs and ceremonies across the country but for many ordinary citizens, independence can feel very different from the celebrations around them. On a day meant to symbolise freedom, restrictions on transportation, travel, mobile networks and internet services can make daily life difficult. In some places, public gatherings are restricted, restaurants and public spaces face limitations and even travelling with two people on one motorcycle may not be permitted.
Security is important, but independence should also make citizens feel secure, connected and free to live their normal lives. The question is not whether security measures are necessary but whether they can be designed in a way that protects people without unnecessarily restricting their everyday freedoms. Independence should not remain only a celebration of the past; it should also be something citizens can experience in their daily lives. A truly independent society should provide both security and freedom, because the real spirit of independence is not simply carrying a flag on August 14, but feeling that freedom throughout the year.
Muhammad Naseer
Turbat
