A Delhi court on Thursday took cognizance of defamation complaint filed by former minister of state for external affairs MJ Akbar against journalist Priya Ramani, who has accused him of sexual misconduct around 20 years ago.

The Patiala House Court said it has taken cognisance of the charges under Section 500 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Citing tweets and articles by Ramani, Akbar’s lawyer Geeta Luthra told the court that it's prima facie defamatory.

She said Akbar was an elected member of parliament, had a long career in journalism and authored various books.

But Ramani's allegations caused irreparable loss to Akbar's reputation built over 40 years, said his lawyer.

The court has fixed the matter for recording Akbar's statement on October 31 and after being satisfied it may issue notice to Ramani for appearing and facing the trial in the defamation complaint.

Akbar on Monday had filed the complaint against Ramani alleging she "wilfully" and "maliciously" made imputations against him with the ulterior motive of maligning his reputation and political standing.

On Wednesday, Akbar stepped down as minister following a spate of allegations of sexual harassment during his days as editor of several publications.

Ramani, who was the first to call him out by name for his allegedly predatory behaviour, said on Twitter, "As women, we feel vindicated by MJ Akbar's resignation. I look forward to the day when I will also get justice. #MeToo."

The defamation case filed two days ago led more women and some men too to come forward in their defence of Ramani and others. On Tuesday night, 20 journalists, who had worked at The Asian Age during Akbar's tenure, issued a joint statement against him.

(With inputs from PTI)

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First Published:Oct 18, 2018 2:35 PM IST