Civilians were left fuming when Army officials denied them entry to a meeting on the AOC roads’ closure here on Sunday. Terming it as Army’s high-handedness, they threatened to block Army personnel’s vehicles from plying on civilian roads.
According to those present at the meeting, the Army is likely to block even RTC and school buses and autorickshaws, which have been given relaxation till now, in the coming months.
Residents of various colonies were seen arguing with the security personnel outside the AOC Headquarters as entry was denied to some civilians. Even mediapersons were kept waiting outside the gate.
Civilians fumed over Army’s unceremonious behaviour in showing them the door even though they had turned up at the venue before the scheduled time, 11 am. According to BJP senior leader N Indrasena Reddy, who participated in the closed-door meeting, Army officials explained the problems being faced by them in allowing civilian movement on AOC roads.
“At the very outset of the meeting, they (Army officials) clarified that the meeting was not for any negotiation but to convey their views to the civilians. Consequently, they made a PowerPoint presentation explaining that AOC roads were private roads and were categorised as sensitive areas. However, they have not cited any security reasons,” Reddy added.
BT Srinivasan, spokesman of the Resident Welfare Associations JAC, said that they were not allowed even to carry their mobile phones inside the meeting hall and the entire proceedings were videographed. “They said that allowing civilian traffic was causing hardship to about 2,500 trainees who were being trained at the AOC centre. Their contention is that the roads from Safilguda to Picket and Ramakrsihnapuram to Secundrabad Club have been categorised as A1 Roads (sensitive roads). Besides, they will also restrict RTC buses, school buses and autos using the AOC roads in a phased manner,” he said.
Social activist Yamuna Pathak lashed out at public representatives for their indifference to the hardships of civilians. “What happened inside was just a monologue. They have refused outright to consider the views of the public. Besides, civilians are left to fend for themselves in the absence of any public representative to lead the protests and voice their concerns,” she said with anguish.