Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has extended his support to students of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), who are staging an indefinite sit-in following a series of confrontations on the institute’s campus. He accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of targeting those who disagree with its ideology and attempting to intimidate aspiring filmmakers.
In a video shared on his official social media account on Saturday, Shah alleged that the BJP was seeking revenge against people who did not subscribe to its beliefs and policies following its victory in the West Bengal elections.
Describing the SRFTI students as the latest targets of what he called political vendetta, the actor claimed they had faced show-cause notices, surveillance, threats and orders to vacate their hostels after demanding accountability from the institute’s administration.
Shah further alleged that the BJP wanted to promote propaganda in its favour and was now seeking to either influence or frighten the country’s future filmmakers.
Expressing confidence in the students, he said they would eventually tell the truth about themselves, the country and the prevailing situation.
The actor also appealed to citizens who shared their concerns to support the students’ demands.
The SRFTI students have been staging an indefinite sit-in outside Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera’s office since October 12, demanding his resignation.
The protest follows a clash on September 27 between students and members of the Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat (ABGP), an organisation affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), during a programme at the institute.
Another confrontation reportedly took place on October 4 during a protest organised by members of the Bangiya Hindu Jagaran Mancha. According to reports, some protesters allegedly attempted to force open the institute’s gate after police prevented them from entering.
The students’ protest and Shah’s intervention have brought renewed attention to the dispute over campus events and the institute administration’s handling of the situation.