DCW to undertake foot march from Feb 24 for women safety

New Delhi: In view of the lack of security faced by women and girls in the country, the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) is embarking on a Mahila Suraksha Foot March from Sunday, February 24.

The Commission Chairperson Swati Maliwal together with members of the Commission and volunteers will walk the streets of Delhi non-stop for 13 days to inspect the problems faced by women on a day-to-day basis and take action on the spot. During this period, DCW Chief shall sleep in local areas in clusters and interact with thousands of women and girls.

According to DCW, the 13-day Padyatra will culminate in on March 8 in Central Park in Connaught Place at an event organised to mark International Women's Day.

"During the Yatra, the Commission will launch a scheme - Mahila Suraksha Dal comprising of civil defence volunteers who will generate awareness in the community and help women redress their complaints," said DCW official.

The Mahila Suraksha Dal will engage volunteers from the community to become Mahila Suraksha Mitra during the Mahila Suraksha Yatra. Those interested to join the yatra and become Mahila Suraksha Mitra, are requested to call on 9350-181-181. The Mahila Suraksha Yatra will bring in focus the long-standing demand of the Commission to increase police accountability as well as resources in the Capital, as well as setting up of fast track courts for crimes against women.

DCW chief Swati Maliwal said, "Our soldiers are unsafe at the border and women and girls are unsafe within the country. It's time that people take to streets to demand action on issues concerning our external and internal security. I along with my team will undertake this innovative paidal yatra from 24 Feb to March 8 to raise awareness on women issues. I appeal to all to join us by calling at 9350-181-181".