Opposition party Congress has demanded a probe into sexual harassment allegations levelled against Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar on Tuesday but the ruling party has refused to do so.
Congress said the allegations are extremely serious and the Minister concerned needs to speak up to shed some light to reveal the truth, Hindubusinessline reports.
“Silence cannot be a way out. Matter should be investigated and we would like to hear from the Minister and the Prime Minister,” Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari said.
It is quite surprising and saddening to see so many woman journalists have become prey to this evil harassment said Editors Guild of India in a statement.
So many woman journalists, activists, workers are coming forward to narrate their sexual harassment ordeal by their male counterparts.
“It unequivocally condemns all predatory conduct by such men. It is worse when the perpetrators also happen to be enjoying senior or supervisory positions in the profession,” the Editors Guild of India’s statement said.
It has also asked the media organizations to hold unbiased inquiries into all reported cases.
“Anybody found guilty of sexual harassment or assault should be punished as per the law. The newsroom is the most inclusive workspace in terms of gender. It is our responsibility as media leaders to ensure that it remains safe and fair for all, especially women,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, BJP MP Udit Raj has termed the ‘#MeToo’ campaign as a wrong practice.
“The #MeToo campaign is necessary but what is the meaning of accusing someone of sexual harassment after 10 years? After years, how can it be possible to verify the facts of the events?” Raj Tweeted.
Instead of encouraging women to speak against those monsters in lamb’s outfit, the BJP MP said: “It must also be considered that it can ruin the image of the person who has been accused. It is the beginning of a wrong practice.”