Over 80 students of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) today held a protest at Jantar Mantar against the appointment of Gajendra Chauhan as the institute's chairman.
The protest which had a backing of different student organisations including National Students' Union Of India (NSUI) entered its 53rd day today.
"It has been more than 50 days that we have been protesting. So, our purpose of coming to Delhi is that we should be heard. We had written to leaders from various political parties requesting them to intervene and urge the government to revoke the appointments of 'unfit' people and to set up a transparent procedure for future appointments. Only Rahul Gandhi has replied and come forward," said a student protester.
"Government is waging an ideological war against us. FTII will not bow to any political pressure. Government must initiate a dialogue," said another student.
Congress MP Raj Babbar, JD(U) leader K C Tyagi today also participated in the protest and backed the students.
They along with CPI(M) leader Mohammad Salim, Congress leader Rajiv Shukla, CPI leader D Raja, NCP leader DP Tripathi collectively released a statement expressing their support.
"Their protests are rightful and Gajendra Chauhan has raised grave questions regarding the logic and process followed in the selection procedure," the statement read.
The FTII students association had sent a letter to Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore yesterday requesting him to start a positive dialogue on the issue.
The students have been protesting against Chauhan's appointment due to his affiliation to BJP and his lack of experience and stature.
Meanwhile, Rathore today accused Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi of giving political colour to the stir. Gandhi had visited FTII last week and interacted with the protesting students while promising to support their cause.
The Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting said government was open to discussions with the agitating students but was against politicising the issue.
