Anju Bobby George Stresses Need to Protect Women

Arjuna awardee athlete Anju Bobby George on Saturday expressed concern over safety of women in the country while underlining the need to create awareness about the issue.

"There is a pressing need to create awareness about safety of women among citizens of the country. The need of the hour is to spread awareness among youth to protect women and inform them about the ways and means to save women from violence, harassment and torture," Anju told reporters.

The gold medallist athlete flagged off "Kranti Daud: empowerment of women" on Sunday morning.

The run was organised by an NGO 'Apan Sare', wherein more than 10,000 people are likely to participate.

Addressing the media, Apan Sare president, Balkrishna Purnekar said, "Under the event, a race will be held in eight groups, four each in male and female categories."

To a query, Anju said that she was proud to be a part of various campaigns, aimed at creating awareness on women's issues.

"The cause is good and will go a long way in creating awareness among women and it will also tell men why women should be protected," Anju said, adding that she had already participated in at least three such events on the theme of empowerment of women in the country.

"I am much delighted to be in Maharashtra to help the good cause and to spread the message which is most important these days," she said, adding that she would be happy to set up an athletic academy in Thane.

"We are already setting up one such academy in Bangalore, which will become operational next year," Anju added.