Protests erupt at Satyajit Ray Film Institute in Kolkata

A violent outburst occurred on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) in Kolkata's Panchasayar area when demonstrators associated with the Bangiya/Hindu Jagaran Manch attempted to breach the campus gates during a protest march. Conflicting narratives emerged as protesters, attempting to enter the institute, clashed with police, resulting in injuries and heightened tension. Students and faculty members took shelter inside the campus behind locked gates, some donning helmets for added protection amidst the chaos. [1]

The spark for this recent turmoil traces back to a prior incident on September 27, 2026, which involved a controversial event organized by the Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat (ABGP), a group linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). That event prompted student opposition, leading to violence that injured several individuals. In response to the confrontations, police filed multiple First Information Reports (FIRs), and the West Bengal government announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the September 27 clashes. [2]

In the October 4 protest, the core events remain consistent across various reports: demonstrators reached the campus perimeter, where they confronted police who were positioned to block their entry. As tensions escalated, reports highlight the protesters resorting to throwing stones and bottles at law enforcement. The *Times of India* noted that at least two female students were injured during the altercation, intensifying the situation on campus. Meanwhile, students issued demands for SRFTI to file an FIR against both the ABGP and the Hindu Jagran Manch and called for a cessation of academic activities until the institution’s vice-chancellor and registrar resigned. [1]

There is some inconsistency in the naming of the protest group, with one source referring to them as Bangiya Hindu Jagaran Manch and others simply as Hindu Jagran Manch. Additionally, the narratives surrounding the violence differ vastly. While students and faculty members allege that outsiders initiated the attack on the campus, protesters contend they were provoked first. Until independent verification from police findings or court records can clarify the origin of the conflict, these claims must be treated as allegations. [1]

As the situation unfolded on October 4, the SRFTI campus remained on high alert. Students emphasized the need for security and institutional accountability in light of the previous conflicts. Specifically, the student body has demanded a complete halt to academic activities until their concerns are addressed by the administration. *The Indian Express* reported that students had previously alerted education authorities about the potential dangers posed by rallies close to the institute. Currently, there has been no confirmed police statement regarding the actual incidents of October 4, but investigations continue, alongside ongoing protests on campus. [1]

Sources

• [1] Right-wing protesters revisit SRFTI, clash with cops | Kolkata News - The Times of India
• [2] Kolkata SRFTI clash: students injured during ABGP event

Researched and edited with AI assistance.

Featured image: AI-generated representative image.