The question is who is responsible for the mess in Karachi? A common person, who is living peacefully in the city? Or innocent people who venture out of their homes for buying food for their children? Is this the city of lights or the city of violence? It is extremely appalling. Nowadays, we have been literally made prisoners in our houses owing to violence and lawlessness on the streets. We are unable to move freely. Unfortunately the situation is deteriorating every minute. It is easy for the politicians to mourn over the killings but is this all they are supposed to do? When will they take any action? When will they end their political squabbles? Are they going to bring peace to the city? Everyday something bad happens in Karachi. Everyday scores of families lose their beloved ones. We are not living here to be victimized at the hands of thugs and political opportunists. This is our city and we have the right to live here with freedom guaranteed by the constitution. Our patience is wearing thin on account of this cycle of violence. This is the time for action. QIRAT SALEEM, Karachi, October 20.