BJP seeks probe into Naseeruddin Shah's support for protesting film institute students

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.

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., the unrest began on September 27 when 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. 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.