Vijay Raaz addresses molestation charges against him

Actor Vijay Raaz was arrested in Gondia, for allegedly sexually harassing a female co-worker for days. He has been recently released on bail.

According to reports, the 51-year-old actor was constantly teasing his 30-year-old female co-star in Gondia where they were shooting a film called Sherni. The woman finally contacted the local police and accused Raaz of trying to molest her for five consecutive days in the hotel where the team was staying.

Actor Vijay Raaz, who is now on bail, has responded to the allegations against him.

He told Bombay Times in an interview, “Women’s safety is of prime concern. I have a 21-year-old daughter, so I understand the gravity of the situation. I am all for an investigation by the authorities. However, to ostracize me, suspend and terminate my services from my forthcoming films even before any sort of investigation, is shocking. I have no words to express. It’s a very dangerous place to be in. I have been working in the film industry for 23 years!”

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"People are bound to make judgements without hearing the other side of the story. No matter what the outcome of this case, you’re branded for life. I have been pronounced guilty even before the investigation. My right to earn a livelihood is badly affected. Am I not the victim here? My old father who lives in Delhi, also has to face the society and so does my young daughter,” he said.

The Bollywood actor said that he was playful with the crew members and there was a shared comfort among the co-stars.

“It’s how we are with each other. Yet, when I was told she felt uncomfortable, I apologised. This was in front of the entire crew. My apology meant I respect your feelings. But it didn’t mean that I acknowledged the claims made later at the police station. Saying sorry doesn’t always mean that you are wrong. It means you respect someone’s feelings more. I also have responsibilities and I need a job. My years of hard work can go down the drain if people jump to conclusions without verifying the claims. This should not be one-sided. Truth prevails but the damage is done.”