Delhi government triples annual Budget of DCW to Rs 20 crore

On International Women's Day, deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia tabled the Delhi Budget and announced a three times increase in the allocation of funds for the Delhi Commission For Women (DCW). The Commission will now get a sum amounting to Rs 20 crore, which has not been provided to any women's commission in Indian history till date.

Recognising DCW's chairperson Swati Maliwal's uncompromising attitude and unflinching dedication, Manish Sisodia said: "Out of all Women Commission's in India, DCW under the guideline of Swati Maliwal has been working extremely well. They are successful in building up a sense of security in women."

To this Maliwal said: "Commissions are not given huge amount of funds, but thanks to Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia that DCW, after increased funds, will now be able to start a cyber cell, one stop centres and Mahila Panchayats."

"Our Commission has been allotted more funds than the National Commission for Women (NCW). This is first time in Indian history that a women's commission has been allotted Rs 20 crore. Best gift on Women's Day," she added.

Meanwhile, the Commission organised an award ceremony to commemorate Women's Day and honoured 30 bravehearts who have rendered support and have displayed extraordinary courage and commitment towards the cause of women. While speaking at the second Annual International Women's Day celebrations of the DCW, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said: "We are proud of Swati Maliwal because she does not only question the police or authorities but also the entire government and pin points its mistakes."

Among the awardees were 2006-batch IPS officer from Assam Sanjukta Parashar, who is currently posted in the National Investigation Agency (NIA). In 1992, Bhori Devi Kumhar tried to stop the marriage of a one-year-old girl in a upper caste family and was brutally gang-raped in return. A PIL inspired by her struggle in the Supreme Court resulted in the formulation of the Vishakha guidelines for use in cases of sexual harassment.

Actress Swara Bhaskar was honoured for and taking a stand on issues affecting society.