As women we feel vindicated by MJ Akbar’s resignation. I look forward to the day when I will also get justice in court #metoo — Priya Ramani (@priyaramani) 1539776311000

(With inputs from PTI)

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NEW DELHI: MJ Akbar , who faces multiple charges of sexual harassment, on Wednesday resigned as Union minister of state for external affairs."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 accusations levied against me, also in a personal capacity, (sic)" he said in a statement.“I have, therefore, tendered my resignation from the office of minister of state for external affairs. I am deeply grateful to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and to the external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj for the opportunity they gave me to serve my country,” he added.Akbar is facing allegations of sexual harassment and had on Tuesday filed a criminal defamation case against journalist Priya Ramani, who was the first to report against him.Meanwhile, Akbar's lawyer Sandeep Kapur of law firm Karanjawala & Co said that the private criminal defamation case will come up for hearing on Thursday (October 18) before additional chief metropolitan magistrate Samar Vishal.Kapur said since the matter is subjudice, the law will take its own course."Since we have already filed the defamation case, we will pursue it in the court," he said.Akbar on Monday had filed the criminal defamation complaint against Ramani alleging she "wilfully" and "maliciously" made imputations against him with the ulterior motive of maligning his reputation and political standing.