#MeToo accused MJ Akbar on the verge of resignation

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Union Minister MJ Akbar has been accused in the #MeToo allegations. Several female journalists alleged lately he had sexually harassed them in the early days when he was an editor.

On the hash tag #MeToo women have asked him to step down and if believed to sources in the BJP the charges against him are serious.

Akbar is currently minister of state for external affairs and government sources said a final call in the matter will be taken by prime minister Narendra Modi, who may concede to the resignation demand or retain him in the ministry.

Meanwhile, Akbar said a statement from his end will arrive soon. He was in Nigeria for about a week and just arrived at Delhi airport.

Some of the leaders in BJP has warned Akbar’s resignation would cost politically to the party just before crucial state elections and also the 2019 general elections. Others have come up with their own views that the allegations pertain to a time long before he became minister.

Union Textile Minister Smriti Irani said, “Anybody who is speaking out should in no way be shamed, victimised or mocked”.

When asked about Akbar she said it is his concern and not her as she was not present there.

Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale said Akbar should step down if the allegations have truth.

Union minister for women and child development Maneka Gandhi has demanded for an investigation against Akbar.