FTII Students Assaulted Over Banner Condemning Babri Masjid Demolition

Right-wing activists allegedly assaulted students at the Film and Television Institute of India in Pune over a banner condemning the 1992 demolition of the Babri Masjid. The incident took place a day after the grand consecration ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya.

On Tuesday, right-wing activists entered the campus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune and allegedly assaulted students over a banner condemning the 1992 demolition of the Babri Masjid, according to police reports.

Banner Condemning Babri Masjid Demolition Sparks Controversy

The incident occurred a day after the grand consecration ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya. The Film and Television Institute of India Students Association (FSA) had put up a banner on campus on Monday with the words "Remember Babri, Death of Constitution." This banner sparked controversy and led to the assault on students.

Assault on Students and Damage to Property

Around noon on Tuesday, approximately 12 to 15 unidentified individuals allegedly forced their way onto the campus, overpowering security personnel. They assaulted students while shouting slogans, tore down the banner, and burned it. The Deccan police station registered a First Information Report (FIR) against unidentified persons under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including unlawful assembly, voluntarily causing hurt, mischief causing damage, and other relevant provisions.

FTII Students Association Condemns Attack

The FTII Students Association strongly condemned the attack on democratic rights and the safety of students. They alleged that innocent students were grievously attacked by goons who barged into the campus while security and staff remained mere spectators. The association reported that a mob of 20 to 25 people started shouting religious slogans, hurled abuse at students, and attacked four students, including the association president and general secretary, who sustained injuries.

Counter FIR Against Students

Late at night, a counter FIR was registered against three students under sections of the Indian Penal Code related to imputations and assertions prejudicial to national integration and deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings. This development adds another layer of complexity to the situation.

The incident at the Film and Television Institute of India highlights the ongoing tensions and sensitivities surrounding religious and political issues in India. The assault on students and the subsequent FIR against them underscore the need for dialogue, understanding, and respect for diverse viewpoints within educational institutions.