#MeToo Movement Impact: MJ Akbar resigns from his post of Minister of State External Affairs MEA

Former Senior editor MJ Akbar resigns from his post of Minister of State External Affairs MEA. Senior Editor-turned-politician MJ Akbar has reportedly  tendered his resignation as the Minister of State for External Affairs amid sexual harassment allegations by several women journalists under #MeToo campaign. PM Modi asked MJ Akbar to step down as Union Minister over #MeToo allegations by women journalists, claims media reports.

A 67-year-old Mr Akbar has been named in the #MeToo movement by several former colleagues that started in India. Abkar issued a statement over his resignation that he is seeking justice in the court for which he is stepping down as the Union Minister.

"Since I have decided to seek justice in a court of law in my personal capacity, I deem it appropriate to step down from office and challenge false accusations levied against me, also in a personal capacity. I have, therefore, tendered my resignation from the office of Minister of State for External Affairs. I am deeply grateful to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and to the external Affair Minister Smt Sushma Swaraj for the opportunity they gave me to serve my country," he said in a statement.

Around 20 journalists came forward and alleged the former editor of sexual harassment under #MeToo campaign on social media. The first tweet was made by journalist, Priya Ramani, on whom Akbar had filed a defamation suit over all the allegations against him.