Don't let strike hamper work: Jahnu Barua on FTII stir

Commenting about the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) students going on an indefinite strike to protest against the appointment of actor and BJP member Gajendra Chauhan as chairman, multiple National Award-winning filmmaker Jahnu Barua says students should put their point of view forward without putting their work on the back-burner.

"The students are concerned about the institute. But they should not go on strike and neglect work. They should not let the work suffer," Barua told IANS over phone.

As per reports, the students of the institute went on an indefinite strike from Friday, saying that the appointment is politically motivated.

Chauhan is best known for essaying the role of 'Yudhisthir' in BR Chopra's "Mahabharat" and has also featured in small roles in various films like "Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge" and "Baghban."

A report also said that the "students council sought immediate appointment of another chairman who is 'qualified with a significant body of work to do justice to the institute'."

The Assamese director, who has also received the Padma Bhushan honour due to his contribution to art over the years, refrained from talking about Chauhan's eligibility for the position.

"It is nothing to be happy or dissatisfied over. I would not like to comment on qualification," he added.

In an interview with Times Now, Chauhan urged the students to give him a chance to showcase his capabilities before judging him.

And Barua also noted that he deserves a "chance".

"Giving him a chance is not a problem. It is just that sometimes reservation creeps in so the government should justify that. Our main concern is about the institute," Barua said.

The director went on to add that a person who is aware about "the art of filmmaking" is well suited for the position of chairman.

Barua, who is also named as a member of the FTII society and a FTII alumnus, mentioned that he is "emotionally attached with the institute".

"I'm always there for the institute and I have an emotional attachment towards it. It is my duty to let the government and people know when I see something wrong," he added.