Filmmaker Anand Patwardhan Alleges He Was Stopped From Meeting Protesting Monk At Mumbai University

Documentary filmmaker Anand Patwardhan has alleged that he was prevented from meeting a monk who has been staging a protest at the University of Mumbai campus in Kalina. The incident reportedly occurred when Patwardhan tried to visit the campus to express solidarity with the protesting scholar.

Filmmaker Claims Entry Was Blocked

According to Patwardhan, security personnel at the Mumbai University Kalina Campus stopped him from entering the premises and meeting the monk, who is said to be a scholar of Pali language and has been sitting on a dharna (protest).

Questioning the action, the filmmaker said, “Why are they troubling a scholar of Pali who is on a dharna?” He alleged that there was no clear explanation given for denying him entry to the campus.

Protest by Monk Continues

The monk has reportedly been protesting against certain administrative decisions taken by the university authorities. Supporters claim the protest is peaceful and aims to highlight academic and institutional concerns.

Sources said the monk has been sitting on the dharna for several days, drawing attention from students, academics and activists.

Concerns Raised Over Access

Patwardhan’s claim has raised questions among some observers about restrictions on visitors and activists at university campuses. The filmmaker is known for his work on social and political issues through documentaries.

However, university authorities have not issued an official detailed statement regarding the alleged incident.

Calls for Dialogue

Supporters of the protesting monk and civil society members have called for dialogue between the university administration and the protesting scholar to resolve the matter peacefully. They also urged the authorities to allow academic discussions and democratic forms of protest within the campus.

The situation at the Mumbai University campus continues to draw attention as the monk’s protest goes on and demands for clarification from the administration grow.