At a time when the MeToo movement is being hailed as a solid fight against harassment aimed at women, a Congress MLA has sparked controversy by saying that women accusers often drop their charges by taking money as compensation.
Govind Singh, veteran Congress leader in MP, invited ire when he made light of the ongoing MeToo movement and questioned the intention with which women are levelling charges against the accused.
“There are many instances of MeToo in our villages. The affected women often take money to drop the entire matter and many are misusing it to serve their personal interests,” he reportedly said.
The comments are likely to leave Congress red-faced especially since the party recently demanded the resignation of MJ Akbar as union minister following allegations of sexual harassment made against him. Party president Rahul Gandhi too has expressed solidarity with women who have recounted tales of horror. In fact, he has previously also said he firmly believes in equal rights and representation for women in all walks of life.
The MeToo movement, which began in the US, has helped many women recount instances when they were harassed – sexually or otherwise. (Agencies)
