Pallavi and I were in consensual relationship: Akbar denies rape-allegations
What's the story
Former editor MJ Akbar, who was accused of rape by US-based journalist Pallavi Gogoi, has denied the charges and said they were in a consensual relationship. Pallavi wrote an article for The Washington Post detailing the harassment she was subject to during her stint at Asian Age in Delhi. Reacting to the serious allegations, Akbar said their relationship ended on a sour note.
Defense
Everyone knew about our affair, hints Akbar
Revealing his side of the story, Akbar said sometime in 1994 he and Pallavi started their relationship. "Several people who worked with me and knew both of us have come forward to indicate that they would be happy to bear testimony," Akbar said. He added at no point in time did Pallavi hint she was working under any form of duress.
Twitter Post
Akbar categorically denies all the allegations
Former Union Minister #MJAkbar in a statement to ANI denies rape allegations levelled against him by journalist Pallavi Gogoi in Washington Post. pic.twitter.com/RqWYuQycgu
— ANI (@ANI) November 2, 2018
Akbar's wife
Notably, his wife Mallika also defended him after allegations
Mallika said Pallavi caused unhappiness in her home for a long time. "I learned of her&my husband's involvement through her calls&her public display of affection in my presence," she said. According to Mallika, Pallavi flaunted her relationship with Akbar which caused anguish and hurt to her family. "I don't know Pallavi's reasons for telling this lie but a lie it is," she said.
Context
Backstory: After incessant abuse, Akbar raped Pallavi, she alleges
Pallavi, an Asian Age employee, was abused by Akbar. He kissed her at his office and then months later raped her at a hotel room in Jaipur. She had gone there to discuss an assignment. Back then Pallavi didn't go to police thinking no would believe her, and ask why she went to the room. #MeToo stories gave her courage, she wrote.