Hyderabad, Mar 8 (Reporter) Telangana Panchayat Raj, Women and Child Welfare Minister Dr Danasari Anasuya Seethakka emphasised that equality is the fundamental purpose of International Women’s Day. Speaking as the chief guest at the "Run for Action 2025" event, organised by the Hyderabad City Police at People’s Plaza on Saturday morning to mark the occasion, Seethakka highlighted the importance of women's empowerment and the need for gender equality in all aspects of life. She congratulated the organizers for holding the event and extended her best wishes to everyone on International Women’s Day. Seethakka stressed that every individual must be mentally and physically strong. She recalled how women, who were once marginalized in society, have fought tirelessly for their rightful place. International Women’s Day originated from a movement demanding equal pay for equal work, and today, the occasion serves as a reminder that there is no difference between men and women. She reiterated that the event was being celebrated with the intent of promoting equality for all. Commending the efforts of the police in ensuring women's safety, she noted that Hyderabad has become a secure environment for those coming to the city for jobs, employment, and business opportunities. However, she emphasised that responsibility does not lie solely with the police. Society as a whole must work towards making women feel safe, and men should respect and treat women as they do their own family members. If such a mindset prevails, women will be able to move around freely and return home safely. She also raised concerns about the growing menace of drug addiction, which she said is destroying lives and eroding dignity. She called for collective efforts to create a society that is conscious of the dangers of substance abuse. Urging everyone to work towards the protection and development of women, she concluded with an inspiring message: “Let’s empower women, respect women, and help them walk with self-respect.” Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand also addressed the gathering, expressing his pride in the increasing representation of women in the police force. He praised Seethakka as a symbol of perseverance and an inspiration to many. Highlighting the progress of women in law enforcement, he stated that 8 out of 20 DCPs in Hyderabad are women, and recently, women SHOs have been appointed in both Law and Order and Traffic Police Stations. Anand further noted that out of 18,000 police personnel in the Commissionerate, 30 per cent are women, underscoring the strides women have made in the field. He commended their contributions and reaffirmed the commitment to fostering gender equality and ensuring women's safety. The event concluded on a high note, celebrating the spirit of women's empowerment and reinforcing the collective responsibility towards a more inclusive society. The run commenced from People's Plaza under the auspices of the Hyderabad Police, attracting a large number of young men and women. Participants took part in both the 5K and 2K run competitions, showcasing enthusiasm and determination. The event concluded with the distribution of prizes to the winners, celebrating their achievements...////...