Bollywood actor Vijay Raaz has been acquitted by a Gondia court in Maharashtra in a sexual harassment case filed in 2020 by a female crew member during the shooting of the film Sherni.
The court ruled that the prosecution failed to prove the allegations beyond reasonable doubt and charges under Sections 354-A (sexual harassment) and 354-D (stalking) of the Indian Penal Code were dropped.
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The incident allegedly took place between October 25 to 29, 2020 at a hotel where the film crew was staying. The complainant had accused Raaz of making comments about her looks and adjusting her face mask without her consent.
He was arrested on November 4, 2020 but was released the same day. Key reasons for Raaz’s acquittal were the complainant’s death before the trial concluded, no direct witness testimony and inconclusive CCTV footage.
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The court also pointed out lapses in the investigation – failure to visit the crime scene or record statements of hotel staff mentioned by the complainant. Citing the principle of “innocent until proven guilty” the court said oral testimony alone was not enough to prove guilt.
Raaz’s lawyer pointed out the professional setbacks he faced – leaving the film midway and losing job opportunities. The verdict highlights the need for thorough investigations and the toll legal battles can take on an accused’s life.
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