Kolkata Film Institute’s Classes Remain Suspended Amid Ongoing Student Protests

The Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) in Kolkata has suspended classes for the sixth consecutive day as students engage in an academic boycott following a violent incident on campus. The unrest stems from an alleged attack by individuals linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization closely associated with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

On September 27, tensions escalated when a group of students opposed an event hosted by the Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat, a consumer organization with RSS ties. The students reported that they were not informed about the event beforehand, leading to a confrontation. According to eyewitness accounts, the clash resulted in injuries to at least six students, some of whom claimed to have been attacked with knives while being labeled as ‘anti-nationals’ and ‘Naxals’ by the participants.

Students’ union representative Poorvi Bondre described the horrific events, stating that the attackers not only used weapons but also chased students, tore their clothing, and forcibly confiscated their mobile phones. The union has since demanded increased security measures on campus and called for the arrest of those responsible for the violent outburst.

In response to the unrest, Kolkata Police have been deployed at the institute’s main entrance, monitoring the situation. However, the authorities appear to be pushing for a return to academic normalcy, suggesting that students engage in external shooting exercises to resume their studies. This approach has sparked further dissent among the students, who remain firm in their demand for safety and accountability.

The situation at SRFTI highlights a growing concern about campus safety and the rising influence of political groups within educational institutions. The ongoing boycott reflects students’ frustration not only with the recent violence but also with the perceived encroachment of political ideologies on academic spaces. As students continue their protest, the situation remains tense, with calls for dialogue between the administration and the student body to address the issues surrounding campus security and governance.

Source: scroll.in