Facing #MeToo allegations, M J Akbar resigns as MoS external affairs

Akbar has denied the allegations and on Monday filed a private criminal defamation complaint against journalist Priya Ramani

AAP spokesperson Dilip Pandey said, "mere resignation by Akbar is not sufficient considering gravity of allegations against him. Criminal proceedings must be started against him."

Resident editor of The Asian Age newspaper Suparna Sharma, who also came out against Akbar, said she welcomes the resignation. "It is a big moment for us. In a sense I feel vindicated. Though the step should have been taken as soon as he landed in Delhi but now at least there would not be a power imbalance and it wouldn't be a fight between the government and Ramani."

Meenal Baghel, who came out in support of Ramani, said Akbar's decision to quit was long overdue while author Kiran Manral said they still have a long road ahead for justice.

While Kavita Krishnan, Secretary of the All India Progressive Women's Association, said it is the determination and courage of 20 women journalists who came forward to expose Akbar that has "belatedly" forced him to resign, women's rights activist Ranajan Kumari said Akbar should be ashamed that he did not quit earlier and he is still fighting against the woman who came out.