Veteran actor Vijay Raaz has been acquitted of all charges in a high-profile sexual harassment and stalking case, following a verdict delivered by the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate's Court in Gondia on May 15, 2025. The case, which originated from allegations made during the 2020 filming of Sherni, had cast a long shadow over Raaz’s career. However, the court has now cleared him of wrongdoing, citing insufficient evidence and critical procedural lapses in the prosecution's case.
The accusations, made by a female crew member during the film shoot in Gondia and Balaghat, included claims of unwelcome physical contact and inappropriate comments. According to the FIR, the complainant alleged that Raaz adjusted her face mask without permission and made remarks about her appearance. The case led to his brief arrest in November 2020 and widespread media attention. However, during the trial, several witnesses turned hostile, key evidence like CCTV footage proved inconclusive, and the complainant herself was unable to testify, having passed away before the trial concluded.
Judge Mahendra Keshao Sorte, who delivered the verdict, pointed out significant gaps in the prosecution's ability to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. With no direct eyewitness testimony and several inconsistencies in the investigation, the court ruled in favor of Raaz, stating that the benefit of doubt must go to the accused. Raaz’s legal counsel, Saveena Bedi Sachar, emphasized that the actor had suffered reputational and professional damage over the past few years, despite maintaining his innocence throughout.
With the acquittal now official, Vijay Raaz can begin the process of rebuilding his career, which had faced setbacks since the allegations surfaced. The case also reignites discussions around due process and the presumption of innocence—particularly in the entertainment industry, where public opinion often precedes legal judgment. While justice has taken time, the verdict marks a significant closure in a case that stirred strong reactions across the media and film fraternity.