SRFTI Students Raise Privacy Concerns Over Ongoing Police Presence on Campus

Students at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute in Kolkata have raised serious concerns regarding the continued presence of police personnel on their campus.

Student Allegations

The SRFTI students' union held a press conference at the Kolkata Press Club on Saturday, October 31, 2026, to address the situation. Students' union general secretary Nachiket stated that police personnel continued to occupy the entrance of the administration building and patrol around hostel premises even though it was a Saturday. The union claims this deployment infringes upon student privacy and restricts their freedom of movement and interaction, leaving them feeling under constant surveillance.

Administration Stand

The ongoing police deployment stems from a wider standoff between the institute administration and protesting students. The administration defended the police presence by stating it was necessary to ensure the safety and security of students, faculty members, and staff. Officials pointed to prior incidents including intimidation, physical abuse, vandalism at the Vice-Chancellor's office, and a campus march on October 27.

Background of Agitation

The protests began after an alleged attack during an event on September 27, followed by another incident on October 4. Students originally began agitating to demand adequate security, accountability, and action against outsiders who allegedly attacked the campus, leading to a sit-in and disruptions to normal campus activities.

Context

Educational campuses in India occasionally see heavy police deployments during prolonged disputes between student bodies and university administrations, usually intended to maintain order during active agitations. However, such measures frequently spark fresh debates over institutional autonomy, student privacy, and the ideal boundaries for law enforcement intervention inside academic spaces.