The Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) in Kolkata has defended its decision to rusticate six students for a year, saying disciplinary proceedings were initiated over specific allegations of misconduct, including vandalism, defacement and physical assault, and not for their participation in protests. The statement came a day after veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah expressed solidarity with the students.
The veteran actor accused the BJP of targeting people who do not share its political beliefs following its victory in the West Bengal elections. Shah alleged that the BJP was attempting to intimidate young filmmakers. The dispute has disrupted academic activities at one of India’s leading government-run film institutes, with classes suspended since September 28 and students demanding the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera.
The institute, which operates under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, said attempts to link disciplinary action to the students’ right to protest misrepresented the circumstances that led to the proceedings. “After its… victory in the Bengal elections, the BJP seems to be all out for revenge against anyone who does not subscribe to its beliefs and policies,” Shah said in a video on social media. He said the party was “either hoping to brainwash or frighten future filmmakers of the country”, adding, “I can promise you that is not going to happen.”
