Key Facts
Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film Satluj, previously titled Punjab 95, was removed from streaming platform ZEE5 within 48 hours of its surprise release on Friday. The government ordered the takedown citing security concerns and lack of CBFC certification. The film, directed by Honey Trehan, had been in limbo for nearly four years over certification issues.
Details of the Controversy
Government's Stand
According to an official spokesperson, the government pulled down the film as it was released on OTT without CBFC certification. The makers had originally submitted the film to the CBFC in 2022 under the title Punjab 95 but did not agree to the board's proposed 127 cuts. The government stated that OTT platforms must follow intermediary guidelines, and the direction was given due to security concerns.
Makers' Response
Screenwriter Niren Bhatt criticized the lack of transparency, stating that the CBFC never communicated what parts of the film were objectionable. He said, "For years, it has just been pure stonewalling. There is pin drop silence from the CBFC." Bhatt confirmed that the makers will appeal in court, drawing parallels with the Udta Punjab case where the judiciary intervened.
Director Honey Trehan revealed that the CBFC demanded changes including altering the name of Jaswant Singh Khalra, removing references to Punjab Police, deleting visuals of the Indian flag and gurbani, and changing the title. He questioned, "What is left then?"
Diljit Dosanjh's Reaction
During an Instagram Live, Diljit Dosanjh said the team had anticipated the removal, which is why they opted for a surprise launch. He thanked fans who downloaded the film before it was taken down, stating, "Lo kar lo block, everyone has the film downloaded. What will you do now?"
Impact and What Readers Should Know
The film's removal has sparked a debate on censorship and freedom of expression. The makers argue that the film is a human rights story about a bank employee who fought for death certificates for families of extrajudicial killing victims. Bhatt dismissed claims that the film could be weaponized by anti-India forces, pointing out that other films like The Kashmir Files and The Kerala Story were released without such allegations.
Pirated versions of the film have surfaced online following its removal. The makers remain hopeful that legal recourse will allow the film to stream again.
FAQ
Why was the film Satluj removed from ZEE5?
The film was removed following directions from the Government of India due to security concerns. The makers had not obtained CBFC certification before releasing it on OTT.
What is Satluj about?
Satluj is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated alleged extrajudicial killings and disappearances during the counter-insurgency operations in Punjab in the 1980s and 1990s.
What did Diljit Dosanjh say about the removal?
Diljit Dosanjh said the team anticipated the removal and urged fans who downloaded the film to keep it. He criticized the authorities, saying they cannot remove content from the internet.
What are the makers planning to do next?
The makers plan to appeal in court, hoping for a similar outcome as Udta Punjab, which was released with minimal cuts after legal intervention.