#MeToo a 'Very Big Issue', Will Comment on it in Next Press Conference: Rahul Gandhi

New Delhi, October 11: Reacting to the #MeToo controversy, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said it is a "very big issue" on which he would be commenting in the next press conference. The Gandhi scion's carefully worded reaction comes amid his party relentlessly demanding the resignation of Union Minister MJ Akbar, accused of sexual harassment by six female journalists.

While addressing the media on the Rafale deal row, Gandhi was insisted by journalists to comment on the #MeToo controversy, which has embroiled MJ Akbar among others. MJ Akbar May be Asked to Resign as Union Minister, Government Wants to Avoid Legal Battle, Say Reports.

"I have come here to address on the Rafale deal row. It is a serious issue...#MeToo is also a very big issue. I will comment on it in a further press conference," the Congress chief said.

Watch the Video of Rahul Gandhi's Reaction to the #MeToo Row:

Akbar, a veteran journalist-turned-politician, has been accused by six of his former subordinates of sexually harassing them while he was the editor-in-chief of a leading English national daily.

Neither Akbar, nor the the Centre, has reacted to the allegations levelled against him. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, on being asked by journalists on Tuesday to react, offered a muted response.

Earlier in the day, Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani said she would not comment on the issue, but added, "Up to the concerned gentleman to issue a statement". She, however, reiterated her support towards the #MeToo campaign, saying that women who narrate their ordeal should "at least be respectfully heard".

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 11, 2018 08:25 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).