Administration Responds to Allegations

KOLKATA — The administration of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) in Kolkata has strongly defended its decision to rusticate six students for a year. The institution stated that disciplinary proceedings were initiated strictly in response to specific allegations of misconduct—including vandalism, defacement, and physical assault—rather than for participation in campus demonstrations.

The clarification from the premier, government-run film institute, which operates under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, came a day after veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah voiced solidarity with the protesting student body.

"SRFTI clarifies that disciplinary action against certain students stems from specific acts of misconduct, including vandalism, defacement, and physical assault—not peaceful protest. The Institute upholds the right to peaceful dissent while ensuring accountability under its rules," the official statement read.

Escalating Campus Tensions

The institutional intervention arrives amidst a prolonged confrontation between the campus administration and a faction of students. The protesting groups have accused organizations aligned with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological mentor of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), of instigating attacks on the campus.

The ongoing dispute has severely disrupted academic operations at one of India's leading cinematic training grounds. Classes have remained suspended since September 28, with student bodies adamantly demanding the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera.

Political Row and Public Statements

The campus unrest has drawn broader national political engagement. Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah released a video message via social media accusing the BJP of targeting individuals who hold dissenting political views following the party's electoral performance in West Bengal.

"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 stated in the recording.

Shah further alleged that the political establishment was attempting to intimidate aspiring young filmmakers. "They are the young people who, in the future, will tell us the truth about ourselves, about our country and about the state we are in," he added.

Counter-Allegations from the Ruling Party

The actor's remarks drew sharp criticism from ruling party figures. BJP Member of Parliament and official spokesperson Rahul Sinha called for a thorough investigation into Shah's comments, suggesting they could be linked to an international conspiracy.

Sinha alleged that the veteran actor had aligned himself with a coordinated effort involving foreign forces and opposition political parties—specifically naming the Congress, the Trinamool Congress, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist)—to undermine democratic institutions in India.