Kejriwal backs DCW chief Swati Maliwal’s call to fast-track rape trials

As the hunger strike by Delhi Commission for Women chairperson Swati Maliwal reached the third day, the protest venue at Samta Sthal drew a teeming crowd with Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in attendance.

Maliwal, who has been demanding a robust system to take on crimes against women and children, has sought fast-track courts to complete trials involving sexual assault on minors within six months and death penalty for the guilty.

In a direct appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Maliwal said, "We do not expect only speeches on social values from the PM but what we want is real action and concrete steps to ensure women safety. I have great respect for the PM and if he can implement demonetisation within a single night then of course he can give the country a robust system to ensure women safety."

Maliwal reiterated that she will not break her fast till the PM promises a proper system to prevent rapes and maintained that she is "ready for any sacrifice for it".

Addressing the gathering, Kejriwal said, "I am not here only to support Swati Maliwal'' cause but I have come here because I am a father, husband and a son and most importantly as Delhi CM I am always concerned about the safety of women in Delhi." Kejriwal went on to back Maliwal's demands for fast track courts and death penalty for the guilty.

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