Caste Discrimination at FTII: Dalit Student Accuses Professor of Harassment, Disrespecting Baba Saheb

Pune- Prashant More, a student from the 2021 batch of the Television Direction course at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, has made serious allegations against one of his professors, Dr. Milind Damle. More claims that Dr. Damle, who also heads the department, has been targeting him based on his caste and hindering his academic work without justification.

In a letter addressed to the Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (Films), Government of India, More highlighted his grievances. He mentioned that he had earlier raised this issue with the FTII administration about six months ago, seeking action against Dr. Damle, but no steps were taken. Instead, the institute allegedly shielded the professor by conducting a biased investigation and clearing him of all charges.

Recently, More wrote another letter urging a high-level inquiry into the caste-based discrimination and harassment he has faced. He emphasized the need for strict action against Dr. Damle for the alleged caste-based prejudice.

In his letter to the ministry, More wrote, "I lodged a written complaint on December 13, 2023, regarding caste-based discrimination by a teacher. Despite FTII's written assurance that the matter would be resolved within 15 days, six months have passed without any resolution. No action has been taken so far." He further added, "Such delays not only undermine the credibility of the administration but also reflect poorly on the institution's commitment to addressing serious complaints."

Accusations of Disparaging Comments on Dr. Ambedkar

According to More's complaint, Dr. Damle has also been accused of making derogatory remarks about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. More claims that the administration's decision to exonerate Dr. Damle despite such comments makes them complicit in the caste-based atrocities happening on the FTII campus.

More also alleges that Dr. Damle repeatedly discouraged him from working on caste-related issues, which he views as not only caste-based harassment but also a violation of his fundamental right to freedom of expression.

Discouraging to work focusing on caste-related issues

Dalit student More accuses Dr. Damle of repeatedly instructing him not to work on caste-related topics and making objectionable comments about his work. According to More's complaint, when he attempted to write stories addressing caste-based issues, Dr. Damle pressured him to focus on other subjects. More shared an instance where he presented a fictional story highlighting caste-based oppression, only to have Dr. Damle question the concept and advise him to explore different themes.

Furthermore, More alleges that Dr. Damle obstructed his work during his Multi-Camera Module and final projects, discouraging him from focusing on caste-related issues. More also claims that Dr. Damle spread bias against him among other students, which affected his chances of having his work submitted to film festivals.

A Fight for Dignity

In a conversation with The Mooknayak, Dalit student More stated, "For me, this is a fight for dignity. If, even after receiving higher education, I am denied my rights, then other students like me will also fall victim to the casteist mindset in the future."

"Despite being in a prestigious institution like FTII, I have had to face discrimination from a teacher, which not only affects the quality of education but also impacts my self-respect. Action must be taken against such a teacher," he added.

This case has sparked a new debate on casteism and discrimination at FTII. It is not the first instance where a student has faced harassment due to their caste. Such incidents are reported from every state in India. However, it raises the question of whether enough efforts are being made to promote equality and inclusivity in the field of film and television education. More's case highlights the continued presence of caste-based prejudice and discrimination in higher education, even in fields dedicated to exposing societal injustices.

The FTII administration was contacted for their side of the story, but they could not be reached. An email was sent to the concerned officer, but as of the time of writing, no response has been received. If a response is received, this news will be updated accordingly.