Akbar's exit victory of truth: Congress

Congress on Wednesday said Union Minister M J Akbar's resignation was a result of the persistent pressure put by the women who stood their ground on the allegations of sexual misconduct against him despite Modi government's attempts to brazen it out.

“This resignation is a vindication of the power of truth. More strength to India's women,” Priyanka Chaturvedi, convenor of the AICC Communication Department said.

Congress also kept up pressure on Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding that he speak up on the issue and mocked his election slogan – Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the girl, educate the girl).

“The radio silence of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has deceived those crores of women voters who had reposed their trust in the BJP in 2014,” Congress spokesperson Ragini Nayak told reporters here.

She said the Modi government remained a "mute spectator" at a time when victims of sexual harassment were expecting the prime minister to respond to their ordeal.

Post Akbar's resignation, the Congress said the focus was now on having a fair trial into the allegations to ensure that justice was done in the matter.

“This country has a rule of law and the Congress believes that any allegation levelled against anybody must pass this test of justice. We hope and wish that all the women fighting this tough battle would be heard and finally justice would be imparted,” Nayak said.