After 139 days, academics resume in Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). It was a long, heartfelt strike by students who believed in what they fought for – the integrity and quality of this premier institution. Yet, after facing complete apathy and passive reaction from the government, these students finally went back to their classes to complete their academics which has been suffering. Though some students still wanted to continue with the agitation, the decision was taken so that the students do not face further disadvantages.
In a typical non-cooperative style, the Information and Broadcast Ministry held a few non-conclusive meetings where the core topics of dissent were barely mentioned.
Talking with iamin, Vikas Urs, representative of FTII students on October 28 said, "When we spoke during the meetings, we were unsure whether the ministry is even capable of taking a decision or resolving the strike".
FTII's past, present and future students are now looking at an uphill task. Due to the prolonged strike, the 2008 batch now has a backlog of pending projects to complete and the new admissions for the year 2015-2016 have also not been finalised. "Although not all students wanted to call off the strike, but looking at the larger interest, the student body association took a collective decision. We had already lost four months of the academic year," said Ranjith Nair, student representative of FTII.
"Film makers and alumni have already showed their support by returning national awards. Now, through our academic work also we will reflect the apathy of the current political situation of the country. We would also be going to the Goa International Film Festival and highlight our issues there," added Nair.
Students have decided not to speak to any government representatives unless their problems are resolved.
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