Students of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Itanagar, have suspended all academic activities indefinitely following an alleged assault involving students and a faculty member, raising fresh concerns over security around the institute campus.
The Students’ Council said the academic shutdown began on September 17, a day after the incident, and would continue until the authorities implement concrete measures to address students’ security concerns.
According to the council, three students were carrying out an academic assignment on the evening of September 16 when they were confronted by a group of local youths on Jollang-Rakap Road near the institute. The confrontation allegedly turned physical after one of the youths struck a student with a stick.
Dominic Sangma, head of FTII’s Screenwriting Department and a two-time National Award-winning filmmaker, allegedly intervened but was assaulted by two of the youths, the council alleged. Sangma, who is from Meghalaya, is known for films including the Garo-language feature Rapture (Rimdogittanga) and Ma.Ama.
Another student present at the location was allegedly struck on the head with a bamboo stick. The council further claimed that security personnel and institute officials who reached the scene were subjected to verbal abuse and threats.
Police have arrested two accused in connection with the incident.
The students have also raised broader concerns over campus security, citing alleged repeated threats, unauthorised entry of outsiders and instances of intimidation. The council said female students had also expressed concerns about their safety.
A key demand is the deployment of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel at the institute. Students said an assurance regarding CISF deployment was given in May 2025, but the process had not progressed, with accommodation for security personnel cited as a major hurdle.
The Students’ Council said academic activities would remain suspended until steps were taken to address the security concerns and provide a safer environment on and around the campus.
