Women's safety top priority, says DCW chief

RTI activist Swati Maliwal on Tuesday took charge as head of the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) and declared that women's safety will be her top priority.

This was so as crimes against women were increasing steadily in the national capital, she said.

Maliwal, wife of an Aam Aadmi Party leader, succeeds Barkha Singh. Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung approved her appointment on Monday.

Immediately after taking charge with three other members, Maliwal and the staff of DCW paid homage to former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who died of cardiac arrest on Monday.

"Abdul Kalam is no more, which is a very huge loss to the country," she told the media.

"He has always been my inspiration. I pay my tribute to him. His contribution to India has been immense.

"Kalam Sir never wanted a national holiday after his death. In fact he wanted people who love him to work extra and, so, we have decided to be in office till late and continue with our work," she said.

She said she would visit places like protection homes, G.B. Road -- Delhi's red light area -- and the Tihar Jail and give recommendations for the betterment of women.

Earlier, she took charge as the commission's chief on July 20 but Jung disapproved her appointment, saying he had not been consulted.

She was barred from entering the office and her name plate was removed from her cabin.

On Monday, Jung gave his nod after Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal resent the file concerning her appointment.