Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah and filmmaker Payal Kapadia have shown support for students at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) who are protesting alleged attacks on their campus. The students claim they were attacked by groups linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), leading to a suspension of classes and demands for administrative changes.
- SRFTI students allege attacks by RSS-affiliated groups on campus.
- Classes have been suspended since September 28 amid protests.
- Students demand the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera.
- Naseeruddin Shah criticizes the BJP's actions in West Bengal.
- Filmmaker Payal Kapadia calls for safety and accountability on campus.
What incidents triggered the SRFTI student protests?
The protests began after students at SRFTI reported being attacked on two occasions. The first incident occurred on September 27, when members of the Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat, an RSS-affiliated consumer awareness group, allegedly assaulted students on campus. A second attack took place on October 4 during a rally by the Bangiya Hindu Jagran Manch near the institute's gate. These events raised serious concerns about student safety and campus security.
How have Naseeruddin Shah and Payal Kapadia responded to the situation?
Naseeruddin Shah publicly condemned the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal, accusing it of targeting those who oppose its beliefs and policies. He described the SRFTI students as victims of a political vendetta and emphasized the importance of independent filmmaking and freedom of expression. Shah stated that the BJP aims to intimidate or influence future filmmakers but vowed that this would not succeed.
Filmmaker Payal Kapadia, whose film "All We Imagine as Light" won the Grand Prix at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, expressed horror at the developments. She highlighted that academic activities at SRFTI have been suspended and students have been asked to vacate their hostel rooms. Kapadia criticized the administration for threatening disciplinary action against students who raised security concerns, while no action has been taken against those accused of violence and harassment.
What are the demands of the SRFTI students?
The students have been conducting an indefinite sit-in protest, demanding the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera. They seek accountability from the administration regarding the alleged unauthorized activities and violence on campus. The students want assurances that SRFTI remains a safe and independent space for film education. The institute has suspended filmmaking and video classes until November 13 and asked students to leave the campus, which has intensified the conflict.
Why is this protest significant for the future of filmmaking in India?
Naseeruddin Shah emphasized that the students at film institutes like SRFTI are the future storytellers who will document and interpret India's social and political realities. Protecting their freedom and safety is crucial for maintaining independent filmmaking in the country. The protests highlight broader concerns about political influence, campus safety, and freedom of expression within educational institutions.
What actions are being called for to resolve the conflict?
Both Shah and Kapadia urge the institute's administration to take firm action against those responsible for instigating violence and to stop penalizing students who raise legitimate security concerns. They call for a safe environment where students can pursue their education without fear. The situation remains tense as the administration and students continue to negotiate the terms of campus safety and governance.
