#MeToo row: MoS for External Affairs MJ Akbar tenders resignation

New Delhi: After a defiant stance over allegations of sexual harassment levelled against him, Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar on Wednesday stepped down from his post, sources said.

Mr Akbar said, ''Since I have decided to seek justice in a court of law in my personal capacity. I deem it appropriate to step down from office and challenge false accusation levied against me, also in a personal capacity.'''I therefore tender my resignation from the office of MoS External Affairs,'' Mr Akbar said, according to media reports.

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for having reposed faith in him.''I am deeply grateful to the prime minister? and to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj for the opportunity they gave me to serve my country.''(UNI)