Students at the Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Regional Government Film and Television Institute in Guwahati are protesting against what they describe as poor infrastructure and mismanagement. The institute, named after the legendary Assamese singer and filmmaker Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, was established to promote and nurture talent in the fields of film and television. However, students argue that the reality of studying there is far from the institution’s lofty goals.
The protest, which began earlier this week, has seen students voicing their frustration over a range of issues. Chief among their concerns is the dilapidated state of the institute’s infrastructure. Many buildings, including classrooms and dormitories, are reportedly in a state of disrepair. Students complain of leaking roofs, broken furniture, and inadequate sanitation facilities. These conditions have made it difficult for them to focus on their studies and have raised concerns about their overall well-being.
In addition to the infrastructure problems, students have also criticized the management of the institute. They claim that there is a lack of transparency in the administration and that decisions are often made without consulting or even informing the student body. This lack of communication has led to a growing sense of mistrust between the students and the administration. Furthermore, students allege that the institute is severely understaffed, with many key positions remaining vacant for extended periods. This has resulted in a lack of guidance and mentorship, which is crucial for students pursuing careers in the competitive fields of film and television.
The academic programs at the institute have also come under fire. Students argue that the curriculum is outdated and does not reflect the current trends and technologies in the industry. They claim that the equipment provided for practical sessions is either outdated or non-functional, hindering their ability to gain hands-on experience. This, they argue, puts them at a disadvantage compared to students from other institutions who have access to better resources and more relevant training.
The protest has garnered attention from various quarters, including the media and local government officials. Several prominent figures from the Assamese film industry have also expressed their support for the students, calling for immediate action to address their concerns. They argue that the institute has the potential to be a premier center for film and television education in the region but that this potential is being squandered due to mismanagement and neglect.
In response to the protest, the institute’s administration has acknowledged some of the issues raised by the students but has urged them to call off the protest and return to their classes. They have promised to address the concerns in a phased manner, citing budget constraints and bureaucratic hurdles as reasons for the delays in implementing improvements. However, the students remain unconvinced and have vowed to continue their protest until concrete steps are taken to address their grievances.
The situation at the Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Regional Government Film and Television Institute highlights the broader challenges facing educational institutions in India, particularly those in the arts and humanities. While the country has made significant strides in improving access to education, issues such as poor infrastructure, outdated curricula, and administrative inefficiencies continue to plague many institutions. These problems are often exacerbated by a lack of funding and political will, leaving students to bear the brunt of the consequences.
As the protest continues, it remains to be seen whether the students’ demands will be met or if the situation will deteriorate further. What is clear, however, is that the status quo is no longer acceptable to those who have chosen to dedicate their lives to the pursuit of creative excellence. The students at the Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Regional Government Film and Television Institute are standing up for their right to a quality education, and their struggle serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in the future of India’s creative industries.
