Key Facts
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has announced statewide screenings of the film 'Satluj' after its removal from the OTT platform ZEE5. The film, which was originally titled 'Punjab '95', depicts the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra during the turbulent militancy era in Punjab (mid-1980s to early-1990s). It was released uncut on July 3, 2026, but was taken down days later.
Details of the Controversy
SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal stated that he has directed every party worker, office bearer, and leader to stream the film in every village, town, and city of Punjab. He emphasized that the aim is to ensure that today's youth and future generations learn about the 'unspeakable tragedy and repression' during the Congress governments. 'SAD will never remain a mute witness to this injustice,' Badal added.
Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab Chief spokesperson Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal responded sharply, referencing a statement by Paramjit Kaur Khalra, wife of Jaswant Singh Khalra. Dhaliwal claimed that Sukhbir Badal wrote a letter to the central government seeking a ban on the film. 'If this is true, nothing can be more shameful. This exposes the Badal family's real face before the Sikh community and the people of Punjab,' he said.
Political Reactions and Impact
The controversy has sparked a political war of words in Punjab. AAP accused SAD of consistently siding with those responsible for injustices against Punjab and the Sikh community. Dhaliwal further alleged, 'The Congress committed these atrocities, the BJP government is now preventing this truth from reaching the people, and the Badal family is helping them suppress it. This clearly shows that all three have worked together whenever it came to hiding the truth about Punjab.'
SAD, however, maintains that the film is a historical record that must be preserved and shared. The party's decision to screen the film across the state is seen as a direct challenge to the removal from OTT platforms.
What Readers Should Know
- The film 'Satluj' (formerly 'Punjab '95') chronicles the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated human rights abuses during the militancy period.
- It was released on ZEE5 on July 3, 2026, but was removed shortly after, triggering the controversy.
- SAD plans to screen the film publicly across Punjab, while AAP accuses SAD of hypocrisy for allegedly seeking a ban earlier.
- The issue has become a flashpoint in Punjab politics, with parties trading accusations over historical injustices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the film 'Satluj' about?
The film, originally titled 'Punjab '95', details the life of activist Jaswant Singh Khalra during the militancy phase in Punjab between the mid-1980s and early-1990s.
Why was the film removed from OTT platform?
The film was removed from ZEE5 shortly after its release on July 3, 2026, amid controversy. The exact reason for removal has not been officially stated.
What is SAD's response to the removal?
SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal has directed party workers to screen the film across Punjab to ensure the youth and future generations know about the repression during Congress governments.
What is AAP's accusation against SAD?
AAP claims that Sukhbir Badal wrote a letter to the central government seeking a ban on the film, and accuses SAD of helping suppress the truth about Punjab's past.