Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has voiced his support for the students of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), who are currently engaged in an indefinite sit-in protest over incidents of violence on campus. Shah has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of seeking revenge against individuals who oppose its ideologies and policies.

His remarks were made in an Instagram video released on Saturday. In his video message, Shah described the BJP as a “bloody jhooti party” and claimed that the party is targeting the students following its “manipulative victory” in the West Bengal Assembly elections earlier this year.

He stated, “The latest victims of this vendetta are the students, the aspiring filmmakers of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute.” Shah alleged that these students have faced punitive measures, including show cause notices and threats, in response to their demands for accountability from the administration.

Shah further condemned the BJP for not being satisfied with merely promoting propaganda in its favour. He expressed concern that the party aims to either intimidate or manipulate the future filmmakers of India. The actor emphasised that the young filmmakers will ultimately narrate the truth about the country and its current state.

Students Demand Accountability and Safety

The students of SRFTI have been protesting since October 12, demanding the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera due to the recent violence on campus. The protests intensified following a clash on October 15 between students and members of the Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat (ABGP), a right-wing consumer group that had rented the institute’s auditorium for an event.

Both parties accused each other of instigating the violence. In response to the unrest, the SRFTI administration announced on October 16 that all regular academic operations would be suspended until November 13. The students were ordered to vacate the premises within 24 hours. However, the protesting students have remained steadfast in their demands.

Citing safety concerns, they called for action against those responsible for the violent incidents. The institute was scheduled to observe its Puja vacation until October 21, but the students have continued their sit-in protest, highlighting the need for a safer environment on campus. They have expressed their determination to ensure that their voices are heard and their demands are met.

Shah’s Recent Work and Continued Advocacy

Naseeruddin Shah, aged 76, has been active in the film industry and was last seen in the romantic drama ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’, directed by Imtiaz Ali, which features actors Diljit Dosanjh, Vedang Raina, and Sharvari in prominent roles. He also appeared in the MX Player series ‘Made in India: A Titan Story’, portraying the character of the late Indian entrepreneur JRD Tata.

Shah’s involvement in the ongoing situation at SRFTI underscores his commitment to advocating for the rights of students and the importance of artistic freedom. His call for support from “right-minded citizens” reflects a broader concern for the future of filmmaking and creative expression in India.

As the situation at SRFTI continues to develop, the actions taken by both the students and the administration will be closely monitored by the public and media alike. The outcome of this protest may have significant implications for the relationship between educational institutions and political entities in the region.

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