In such a climate, everyone - even street performers - can be seen as potential tools of the state. For most of Pakistan's 76-year history, the surveillance was a routine facet of daily life. But in recent years, frustration with the military's role in politics has exploded. "With the political atmosphere so polarised, we're becoming more suspicious of being watched or who is listening," said Ali Abas, 25, a resident of Islamabad.