Smriti Irani Reacts to #MeToo Allegations Against MJ Akbar, Says 'Up to Him to Issue a Statement'
The 42-year-old BJP stalwart, however, reiterated her support to the #MeToo movement, stating that the women coming up with their ordeals should be 'respectfully heard'.
New Delhi, October 11: Union Textile Minister Smriti Irani reacted to the sexual harassment allegations levelled against her ministerial colleague, saying, "It is up to the concerned gentleman to issue a statement". Irani further stated that she could not comment as "I am not aware of the cases".
The 42-year-old BJP stalwart, however, reiterated her support to the #MeToo movement, stating that the women coming up with their ordeals should be "respectfully heard". MJ Akbar May be Asked to Resign as Union Minister, Government Wants to Avoid Legal Battle, Say Reports.
"Women don’t go to work to be harassed. They go to work to live their dreams and earn a respectable living. I am hopeful that all these ladies who are speaking out get the justice that they deserve," she added.
Watch Smriti Irani Speaking on #MeToo Allegations Against MJ Akbar:
Akbar, the Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs, has been accused by at least six of his former colleagues of sexually harassing them. The alleged harassment dates back to the days when Akbar was the editor-in-chief of a leading English national daily.
Apart from Akbar, the #MeToo storm has hit other media stalwarts as well, leading to the resignation of Hindustan Times political editor Prashant Jha, ex-DNA and TOI editor Gautam Adhikari and Business Standard reporter Mayank Jain.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 11, 2018 05:21 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).