Former top cop Kiran Bedi [Images] is known for her no-nonsense approach. She spares nobody who gets into her crosshairs. In fact, she is a source of inspiration to millions of oppressed women in India to fight for their causes.

Kiran Bedi, who currently espouses the casue of the women through the television show Aap Ki Kachehri on Star Plus, talks about women empowerment and how they can safeguard their interests on the eve of Women's Day.

Why are women still vulnerable in the 21st century against male chauvinism?

Because they are still economically dependent on men. They do not even own resources which they generate or co-produce. Their poverty adds to their physical weakness. Children are their emotional weakness and strength at the same time. Men are mobile. Women are more home bound because of family responsibilities. While men climb positions, women are left behind supporting them.

What efforts must women take to empower themselves in all spheres of life?

~ Get out of dependence to interdependence

~ Learn to be ones own provider at the same time

~ Get out of the security syndrome and learn to take risks. Be mobile and agile

~ Be your own friend too

Are you happy with the way our politicians are haggling over passing a bill that gives 33 per cent reservations to women in Parliament and assemblies? Is that enough and how is it likely to change the status of women in India?

Politicians are not expected to pass a bill which undermines them. So to expect this from them is being naive.

A recent report published by the International Labour Organisation has observed that the economic downturn has hit women harder than men. Do you see some kind of negative bias against women at the workplace?

No it's a question of the fittest. And men are fitter because they are in the market fighting for their space. Women are not fighters. They are not visible. I am talking of the majority. Not the minority.

What would be your tips to women to protect themselves against rape, physical abuse etc?

~ Mental and physical strength.
~ Alert behaviour.
~ Self confidence. And never to be living as victims.

Is the lot of women in urban India any better than that of rural India?

Yes to an extent it is. In view of opportunities and the exposure they have.