Veteran Bollywood actor Vijay Raaz has finally been acquitted in a 2020 sexual harassment case filed by a female crew member during the shooting of a film in Gondia, Maharashtra. After nearly four years of legal proceedings, the Gondia Magistrate Court has given a clean chit to the actor, citing lack of evidence and unreliable testimony from the complainant.
The case dates back to November 2020 when Raaz was shooting for the Vidya Balan starrer film Sherni. A crew member accused him of inappropriate behavior, leading to his brief arrest. He was later released on bail, but the allegations caused a stir in the industry, with the actor facing backlash and suspension from the film for a brief period.
However, in a recent development, the court ruled that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence against Raaz. His defense team argued that the claims were false and driven by misunderstanding or misinterpretation of his actions. The court observed inconsistencies in the complainant’s statements, ultimately leading to Raaz’s acquittal.
The 60-year-old actor, known for his memorable roles in films like Run, Dhamaal, Gully Boy, and Stree, expressed relief after the verdict. “Truth always wins,” he reportedly said in a brief statement to the media.
This judgment not only clears Raaz’s name but also raises important questions about the impact of false allegations on public figures and the need for fair investigation in such sensitive matters.
