As a member of the film and academic community, I am both shocked and deeply saddened by the recent assault on Prof. Dominic Sangma, a respected filmmaker and educator, who has tirelessly dedicated himself to enriching the lives of students at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Jote, Arunachal Pradesh. This violent attack on Prof. Sangma is not just an attack on an individual, but on the very principles of free expression and education that guide our society.

Prof. Sangma, who is also an esteemed alumnus of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), heads the Screenwriting Department at FTII. His commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering creative expression has been an inspiration to countless students and faculty members alike. This assault is a flagrant violation of the safety and respect that educators deserve and underscores the urgent need for effective measures to protect all faculty and students within educational institutions.

According to reports, Prof. Sangma was physically assaulted on campus, an act that signals a grave threat to the safe environment that educational institutions are supposed to provide. Such incidents not only instill fear and insecurity among educators and students but also disrupt the academic and artistic growth that these institutions are supposed to foster.

The Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute Alumni Association (SAA) has already expressed its deep anguish and condemnation of this incident. As a community, it is imperative that we come together to demand swift and decisive action to ensure justice for Prof. Sangma and to guarantee the safety of all members of the FTII and other educational institutions.

We urge local authorities, the FTII administration, and the government to:

1. Conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident and hold the perpetrators accountable.
2. Implement comprehensive security measures to prevent future incidents of violence on campus.
3. Provide counseling and support services for Prof. Sangma and the student body affected by this traumatic event.
4. Reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding the principles of freedom, expression, and security in all educational settings.

This issue is not isolated to FTII or Arunachal Pradesh. It represents a broader epidemic of violence against educators and students that must be addressed with urgency. The safety and dignity of our educators are non-negotiable, and it is our responsibility as members of this community to ensure that justice is served.

By signing this petition, you are standing in solidarity with Prof. Sangma, the FTII community, and against the oppressive forces that threaten the core values of education and creativity. I urge you to sign and share this petition to bring awareness and action to this critical issue. Together, we can advocate for a safer and more just educational environment.