FTII students to continue with protests

Despite the scrapping of Hewitt report, students peeved with I&B Ministry

Protest is in the air of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). It seems like the agitation might continue despite the emergency meeting on Thursday attended by FTII authorities, members of governing council, ministry, and students' body representatives along with PK Nair.

The members had come to a conclusion that the Hewitt Committee report should be scrapped, as the report is not in sync with the vision of the institute. "A new committee has been formed. It will comprise of group of experts nominated by the governing council that will include P K Nair along with those involved with the institute and a student body representative. The committee will make a fresh report on how to upgrade the courses of the institute. They have to submit it within three months," said Dr. UR Ananthamurthy, Chairman, FTII.u00a0 "The committee can take guidance from the director and administration if they feel the necessity."

I&B disappoints
Though the students can heave a sigh of relief because Hewitt report will no more be considered, they are still dissatisfied with no proper promises by Information and Broadcasting ministry and their attitude. "There are high chances that the report we submit will be scrapped either by the governing council, ministry or planning commission. This has happened in the past and therefore we do not trust the ministry. We will continue with the protests," said FTII student council president Samarth Dixit.u00a0

u00a0"The representative of the ministry, D R Reddy left the premises even without addressing us. We haven't got a clear picture."

Protest at IFFI
Some FTII students' council representatives pointed that they will visit the International Film Festival both in Goa and Kerala and voice their concerns there. "We want our points to be heard. We will now be part of these festivals and raise the issues," said a member requesting anonymity.

Dixit maintained that the course of action would be decided only on Friday. "We are waiting for an official letter from the director after which we will decide on how to carry forward the agitation."u00a0

Meanwhile Pankaj Rag, Director, FTII said, "My concern is that the purpose should be solved in an amicable manner."