Kolkata: Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has found himself at the centre of a political controversy after extending support to students of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI). Following his remarks in favour of the protesting students, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched an attack on the actor, accusing him of attempting to weaken the country’s democratic system. The controversy has once again brought debates around freedom of expression, student movements and political reactions into focus.
Naseeruddin Shah had appealed to citizens to support the demands of SRFTI students, who have been protesting over issues related to the institute. His statement came at a time when tensions had emerged on the campus following a dispute involving students and a group associated with an event held at the institute. The students had raised concerns over the incident, campus security and the administration’s response.
Naseeruddin Shah Extends Support to SRFTI Students
In his statement, Naseeruddin Shah alleged that students at the institute were being targeted for raising questions and demanding accountability. He claimed that students were issued show-cause notices, placed under surveillance, threatened and asked to vacate their hostel rooms.
The actor also alleged that the BJP was promoting its own propaganda and attempting to influence aspiring filmmakers. He appealed to people to stand with the students, saying that young filmmakers should be allowed to present the truth about society and the country.
BJP Leaders Hit Back at Actor
Reacting to Naseeruddin Shah’s remarks, BJP leaders criticised the actor and accused him of making statements that could harm the democratic framework of the country. The party leaders questioned his stand and called his comments politically motivated.
The BJP’s response has added another layer to the ongoing debate, with one side raising concerns about students’ rights and the other questioning the intent behind the actor’s remarks.
Rahul Sinha Targets Naseeruddin Shah
BJP Rajya Sabha MP Rahul Sinha strongly criticised Naseeruddin Shah and questioned his sudden involvement in the issue. He alleged that the actor had remained silent for a long time and became active only after receiving certain signals from outside.
Sinha further claimed that details about alleged funding and external influence would come out in the future. He also accused those who speak against the country while living in India of trying to create divisions.
Ritesh Tiwari Also Attacks Actor
BJP MLA Ritesh Tiwari also reacted sharply to Naseeruddin Shah’s comments. He claimed that the actor’s ideology has always been against the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
Tiwari questioned why Shah had not spoken on certain other issues in West Bengal and alleged that such people act under the influence of foreign funding. He said that people are watching these developments closely.
What Did Naseeruddin Shah Say?
In his video message, Naseeruddin Shah alleged that after gaining power in Bengal, the BJP had started targeting those who do not agree with its ideology. He claimed that aspiring filmmakers studying at SRFTI had become victims of this approach.
The actor alleged that students were being pressured for demanding accountability and warned that attempts to silence young voices would not succeed. He urged citizens to support the SRFTI students.
What Is the SRFTI Controversy?
The Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute in Kolkata is among India’s leading film and television training institutes. The controversy began after a dispute over an event organised on the campus. Students alleged that permission for the programme was granted without their knowledge and consent.
During their protest against the incident, tensions reportedly increased on campus. Students raised concerns regarding security arrangements and the role of the institute administration. The issue gained wider attention after different groups expressed their views on the matter.
Debate Over Freedom of Expression Intensifies
Naseeruddin Shah, one of India’s most respected actors, has often expressed his views on social and political issues. His support for SRFTI students and the political reaction that followed have once again triggered discussions about the role of artists in public debates and the limits of freedom of expression.
