The Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), Santosh Ajmera, was allegedly manhandled by a student and verbally abused by others following the vandalism of his office. This incident occurred amid ongoing protests by students over campus security concerns. The academic shutdown by SRFTI students has entered its 17th day, highlighting serious unrest on the campus.
- The VC's office was vandalised with broken glass, stones, and damaged furniture.
- Students have been protesting since September 28, demanding better security and the VC's resignation.
- Eight students received show-cause notices for disciplinary reasons related to the protests.
- The VC condemned the assault and called for strict action against those responsible.
- Protesting students continue an indefinite sit-in until their demands are met.
What happened during the vandalism and assault at SRFTI?
On the night before the incident was reported, the VC's office was vandalised extensively. The next morning, faculty members found the office strewn with broken glass, stones, and damaged furniture. Later that day, after a meeting condemning the vandalism, some students surrounded Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera. They raised slogans, used abusive language, and one student allegedly physically manhandled him. Ajmera described the attack as "unacceptable," creating a "disturbing and intimidating" atmosphere on campus.
Why are the students protesting at SRFTI?
The protests began on September 28 as an academic shutdown called by the SRFTI Students' Union. The students are demanding improved campus security following clashes with groups linked to the RSS. They have also called for the resignation of the Vice-Chancellor, revocation of disciplinary notices issued to eight students, and an independent inquiry into the campus violence. The students have maintained a sit-in outside the VC's office for several days as part of their protest.
How has the Vice-Chancellor responded to the protests and violence?
Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera acknowledged the students' right to protest but condemned the assault on him and the vandalism of his office. He called for the strictest action against those found guilty. Ajmera also raised concerns about a section of students intimidating others and preventing attendance in classes, which forced some students to leave the campus. He emphasized that the actions of a few students disrupted peace, order, and the academic environment at SRFTI.
What are the students' demands and next steps?
The SRFTI Students' Union has formally written to the institute's Chairman, Suresh Goel, seeking immediate intervention. Their demands include the resignation of the Vice-Chancellor, revocation of disciplinary notices, and an independent inquiry into the violence on campus. Until these demands are met, the students have pledged to continue their academic halt and indefinite sit-in, prolonging the shutdown and unrest at the institute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When did the protests at SRFTI begin?
A: The protests began on September 28 with an academic shutdown called by the SRFTI Students' Union.
Q: What triggered the protests?
A: The protests were triggered by concerns over campus security and clashes with groups linked to the RSS.
Q: What damage was caused during the vandalism?
A: The Vice-Chancellor's office was vandalised with broken glass, stones, and damaged furniture.
Q: How has the institute responded to the situation?
A: The institute convened a meeting condemning the vandalism and is considering disciplinary action against those involved.
Q: What are the students demanding?
A: Students demand the Vice-Chancellor's resignation, revocation of disciplinary notices, and an independent inquiry into campus violence.
