MJ Akbar, who has been accused of sexual harassment by several women journalists, resigned as Minister of State for External Affairs on Wednesday.
Akbar, however, has denied the allegations and has filed a private criminal defamation complaint against journalist Priya Ramani, one of the 20 women who have have accused him of sexual harassment.
Here is the full text of Akbar's statement:
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 the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and to the External Affairs Minister Smt. Sushma Swaraj for the opportunity they gave me to serve my country.
(M.J. Akbar)
