Itanagar, May 18: The first batch of students at the Film and Television Institute Arunachal Pradesh (FTI ArP) has declared an indefinite academic halt, effective from May 15, 2025, protesting against what they describe as persistent administrative apathy and unfulfilled promises regarding essential infrastructure and academic facilities.
In a strongly worded statement, the students criticized the authorities for failing to provide even the most basic amenities such as clean drinking water, 24/7 electricity, internet access, secure campus conditions, and functional classrooms. “We demand education with dignity, not promises with deadlines,” the students stated.
The protest follows a similar academic halt in March 2025, which led to a meeting and a written list of commitments from the administration. However, students allege that there has been no visible progress since then. Critical infrastructure like the Classroom Theatre (CRT) and post-production blocks remain incomplete, and students continue to suffer health issues due to unsafe water and frequent internet blackouts.
Adding to their frustration is the lack of formal identity and recognition — the institute still operates without a formal name, logo, website, or student ID cards. The absence of a full-time Director and inadequate administrative staffing have further compounded the students’ grievances.
“This second academic halt is not symbolic. It is a refusal to learn in conditions that are physically unsafe, emotionally draining, and academically untenable,” the students declared.
They have vowed not to resume academic activities until their basic demands — safe drinking water, uninterrupted power supply, completion of key infrastructure, and formal administrative accountability — are met.
The protest brings into sharp focus the gap between the institute’s designation as a national-level institution and the ground realities faced by its students.
