Hyderabad: The International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad (IIIT-H) has clarified that it cancelled a proposed screening of the documentary of Umar Khalid “Prisoner No. 626710 is Present” after finding that the event had not received official permission.
The Institute said an informal student group had proposed screening the film in a campus lecture hall on September 18. According to IIIT-H, the group has no official link to the Institute.
IIIT-H said the documentary has not been certified by the Central Board of Film Certification. It added that organisers neither sought official permission nor followed the required protocols for holding the event.
The Institute cancelled the proposed screening after it became aware of the unauthorised event. It has also said that no public or private screening of the film will be permitted in any Institute space.
The restriction covers classrooms, laboratories and offices, according to the Institute. IIIT-H said established processes govern official events and activities held on its campus.
The Institute also rejected reports suggesting that the proposed screening was organised or authorised by IIIT-H. It said neither the Institute nor any of its recognised student clubs, cells or bodies was involved.
IIIT Hyderabad distances itself from documentary screening
IIIT-H said no permission for the screening had been obtained from the competent authorities. It reiterated that the proposed event does not represent the Institute’s views or position.
The Institute said it has a large and diverse student community. Students and faculty members may meet or interact with people from different walks of life in their individual capacities.
However, IIIT-H said such personal interactions should not be interpreted as Institute-organised events. They also do not represent the views or activities of the Institute.
IIIT Hyderabad said all members of its community must follow established procedures when organising or announcing activities on campus. It added that applicable legal and institutional requirements must also be followed.