Vijay Raaz On Harassment Case: "To Ostracise Me And Terminate My Services From Forthcoming Films Before Investigation Is Shocking"

Vijay Raaz had been accused of sexual harassment a few days back and an FIR had also been lodged against the actor. Following these incidents, the makers of Sherni had decided to drop him from the project and it seems like he was forced out of a few more as well. The actor, who otherwise interacts very less with the media, decided to open up about it.

Talking to ET, the actor said that being the father of a 21-year old daughter, he understands what women safety means and why it is so important. He added, "I am all for an investigation by the authorities. However, to ostracise 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! 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.”

Opening up about the incident, he said,“I have been working with the same crew for over a year. We play cricket on set. 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 hard-work will 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.”

Investigation on the matter is underway and we hope that the truth is out soon.