IWPC wants probe against MJ Akbar

New Delhi: As new allegations of sexual harassment surfaced against the Union Minister, M.J. Akbar on Tuesday, the IWPC wrote to Home Minister, WCD minister and NCW demanding an inquiry against him.

The letter to the Home Minister states, “We are  deeply dismayed that despite the long list of complaints involving the MoS in Ministry of External Affairs no formal inquiry has been initiated into the complaints of serious charges of sexual harassment. Rather motives have been attributed to the complainants.

In the light of such allegations we hope that your government will rise to the occasion and institute a fair and impartial inquiry.” It further added, “We very strongly feel that the continuation of the minister in his position only sends out the wrong message that the government is apathetic to these serious concerns,” the organization comprising women journalists said without naming Mr. Akbar. Journalist Meenal Baghel has initiated a petition signed by women who faced sexual harassment to whatever degree at the hands of MJ Akbar.