Classes at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute in Kolkata remained suspended for the 11th consecutive day on October 10, 2026. Students of the film institute have been boycotting classes since September 27, 2026. Their single demand is better campus security after a series of clashes and confrontations inside the campus. The protest has now entered a critical phase because the Durga Puja vacation is approaching. Academic schedules have been disturbed and many students have started leaving their hostels. Scroll the artcile to know further infortmation.
Why Are SRFTI Students Boycotting Classes?
The boycott began on September 27 after tensions escalated over a programme organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat at an auditorium on the institute’s campus. The group is a consumer awareness organisation affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Students opposed the programme and the situation turned into a clash in which several people were injured. Two faculty members were among the injured. Tensions escalated again on October 4 when the Bangiya Hindu Jagaran Manch held a protest outside the institute’s main gate. Students alleged that people participating in the protest assaulted students on their way to the campus.
Sudip Chakraborty who is the spokesperson of the SRFTI students’ union said the boycott would continue until students receive assurances about their safety. He also alleged that the administration failed to address their concerns adequately. Students staged a sit-in outside the vice-chancellor’s office after the October 4 incident to demand better security. He further alleged that some staff members and security personnel intimidated and harassed the protesting students. Around 150 students from outside West Bengal feel threatened amid the continuing tensions. The union will hold a general body meeting in the next two to three days to decide its future course of action. Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera could not be reached for comment.
Academic Activities Affected at the Film Institute
The continuing boycott has raised concerns over academic activities ahead of the Durga Puja vacation. A senior institute official said classes for first-year students were still pending. No major theory classes have been scheduled for students in other years. Some students have already vacated their hostel rooms ahead of the holidays while others remain on campus. The institute issued a statement on October 5 and said it was deeply concerned about the incidents. The statement reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of students. The class boycott continues as students await further action and clear assurances on campus security.
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