The allegations of sexual misconduct against MJ Akbar date back to the years he was a journalist and newspaper editor in the 1980s and the 1990s.
NEW DELHI: The Editors Guild of India on Thursday called upon Bharatiya Janata Party leader MJ Akbar to withdraw the criminal defamation complaint against journalist Priya Ramani.
In a statement, EGI said it saluted the courage shown by several women journalists in bringing to light instances of how they were sexually harassed.
MJ Akbar, a former president of the guild, resigned from his position of minister of state for external affairs on Wednesday after 20 women accused him of sexual harassment and misconduct in the past.
The Patiala House Court in Delhi will hear the case on Thursday afternoon.The guild also praised the women journalists who spoke out about Akbar and the alleged sexual harassment.
The Guild further stated that in case MJ Akbar did not withdraw his complaint or filed a complaint against other women, then they would support the women in any way they can through legal advice or assistance.The guild urged Akbar not to use the draconian law, especially as a veteran journalist.
The Guild is also committed to ensuring that the legal rights of either the victims or the accused are not violated. A fair, just and safe working environment is essential if press freedoms are to flourish.
The Guild also expresses its gratitude and solidarity towards women journalists who have displayed the courage to bring these critical issues in public debate.
