A political controversy has intensified in India after actor Naseeruddin Shah voiced support for protesting students at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) in Kolkata, prompting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to demand an investigation into his remarks.
According to Indian media reports, BJP leaders have accused the actor’s comments of potentially inflaming tensions and affecting students’ academic futures.
Shah Accuses BJP of Seeking Revenge
In a video message shared on social media, Shah said that the BJP was seeking to take revenge on those holding opposing views following its electoral victory in West Bengal. He also accused the party of attempting to mould aspiring filmmakers according to its ideology or intimidate them.
BJP MP and spokesperson Rahul Sinha called for an investigation into Shah’s remarks, alleging that they could be part of an international conspiracy. He also accused opposition parties of attempting to undermine the democratic system.
Institute Report Details Campus Unrest
Meanwhile, a report by SRFTI, which operates under India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, outlined a series of incidents that reportedly contributed to tensions on campus.
- On September 27, protesting students entered the institute’s main auditorium during an event, resulting in a scuffle and vandalism.
- On October 4, around 250 students reportedly confined Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera near the main gate until 11pm. Subsequently, between 50 and 60 students allegedly occupied his office for nearly two days.
- On October 15, a student was accused of misbehaving with the vice-chancellor, while stones were reportedly thrown at his office the following day.
The institute’s administration said some students had opposed the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras for security purposes. It added that additional security personnel had been deployed, precautionary measures had been taken, and a first information report (FIR) had been registered against unidentified individuals.
The institute has expelled six students for one year over alleged misconduct and suspended classes until November 13 in an effort to restore a safe academic environment.
Kapadia Raises Concerns Over Disciplinary Action
Filmmaker Payal Kapadia has also expressed support for the protesting students, raising concerns over the disciplinary action taken against them.
Kapadia said the students were facing punishment following alleged attacks that had been linked to groups associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the BJP’s ideological affiliate.
The dispute has sparked a wider debate in political and film circles over student protests, disciplinary measures and ideological influence at educational institutions.
