Delhi 'runs' for safety of women

Hundreds of enthusiasts ran for marathon here today in a bid to raise awareness about safety of women in the wake of recent cases of rape which has shocked the entire nation.

Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit along with the sports entrepreneur-politician, Naveen Jindal and others flagged off the marathon.

Dikshit said that the marathon aimed at taking adequate steps to improve the status of women.

"Marathon is not a solution but it attracts and creates awareness among the people that we should remain silent and we should face it and try to improve it," said Dikshit.

Social activist and former top brass of Indian police service, Kiran Bedi also made her presence felt as she gave an inspirational talk to the participants.

While addressing the crowd, Bedi said that with the implementation of police cadet scheme the crime rate in Delhi is likely to reduce.

"I guarantee you the day the police cadet scheme is fully deployed in Delhi there can be no crime etc. There will be such a great instant response. I have seen these police cadets and some of those boys and girls who are police oriented will then naturally become cops or they will join the armed forces. They will join uniform services. So, look at this demand for a police cadet scheme," said Bedi.

New Delhi has the highest number of sex crimes among major cities, with a rape reported on average every 18 hours, according to police figures.