Coming days will see more rallies, most of them in already highly congested areas. According to sources, political parties have sought permission to hold rallies, mainly in the heart of the city ... that is, the Sector 17 Parade Ground, Sector 22's Nehru Park and the Ramlila ground in Sector 20. The parties prefer these venues for the sake of maximum turnout.

The rallies are no doubt an inescapable part of the election process but that does not make them any more welcome to those who have to detour around the crowds. The question being raised is why parties cannot hold rallies at other points where traffic is easier to manage.

For instance, the southern sectors still have vast empty spaces. One can see large grounds in Ram Darbar, Hallomajra, Sector 42 and Sector 43. These areas are also close to the airport and railway station, hence traffic disturbance is confined to a short distance and that too outside the main residential areas. As a police official points out: "More the distance, more the security threat and more police deployment."

Also, those landing at the airport or the railway station need not pass through the whole city.

Because several bureaucrats and politicians reside in the area near the Open Hand, police rule out that space as a venue for security reasons.

When contacted, UT Senior Superintendent of Police C. S. R. Reddy agrees that rallies can be held at various other points: "It would also be better security wise," he said.

Before holding a rally, an organisation has to take permission from the district magistrate who gives the nod after seeking police opinion.

UT Deputy Commissioner-cum-DM M. Ramsekhar, when contacted, said that the rallies are allowed at the Parade Ground for security reasons. "The place is under close watch. I am not sure how other places are placed security wise," he said. "Regarding harassment to commuters, the political parties should think of it. They should realise that the voter may not like being harassed."

Residents make no secret of their feelings. Said Vipin Arora, a shopkeeper: "We heaved a sigh when the PM left. You could not park vehicles anywhere. Driving was impossible."

Local Bharatiya Janata Party spokesman Mahaveer Prasad admits that some people did not appreciate what happened during the PM's visit. "The local administration over-reacts. It wants to play safe. Anyway, one reason why we are holding the next rally in the southern sectors is to ensure that people do not suffer," he added.