Court clears ‘Sherni’ actor of all allegations after prosecution fails to establish guilt; ruling highlights dangers of premature judgments in high-profile cases.
Mumbai | May 16:
Bollywood actor Vijay Raaz, known for his memorable roles in films like Stree and Delhi Belly, has been acquitted of all charges in a 2020 sexual harassment and stalking case. The verdict was delivered by the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate’s Court in Gondia, Maharashtra, citing insufficient evidence and lack of credible witness testimony.
Raaz had been accused by a female crew member of the film Sherni, also starring Vidya Balan, of inappropriate behavior during a shoot in Gondia and Balaghat. Allegations included unwelcome physical contact, suggestive remarks, and stalking between October 25-29, 2020.
Judge Mahendra Keshao Sorte ruled that the prosecution had failed to prove the charges under Sections 354-A (sexual harassment) and 354-D (stalking) of the Indian Penal Code beyond a reasonable doubt. Key findings included:
- CCTV footage failed to corroborate the claims.
- Witness testimonies were either inconsistent or deemed hostile.
- The complainant, a key witness, had passed away before testifying.
Raaz, who was arrested in November 2020 and released on bail the same day, had to leave the Sherni shoot midway and reportedly lost multiple work opportunities as a result of the allegations.
Speaking after the verdict, his lawyer Saveena Bedi Sachar emphasized the emotional and professional toll the case had taken on the actor. She urged the public to refrain from treating accusations as guilt in high-profile cases and welcomed the court’s fair judgment.
The court also ordered the cancellation of Raaz’s bail bond, return of surety amounts, and destruction of CCTV evidence post the appeal period. He has been asked to submit a Rs. 7,000 surety bond under Section 437-A of the CrPC for six months, should an appeal be filed.
The verdict raises questions around due process and the importance of safeguarding both the rights of the complainant and the accused in sensitive cases involving public figures.