Government Considers Mandatory Censor Board Certification for OTT Films

The Indian government is contemplating making Censor Board certification mandatory for films released on OTT platforms, following the controversy surrounding the film 'Satluj'. This potential regulatory change aims to ensure that all content is vetted before release. The film, which depicts the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, was removed from ZEE5 shortly after its release due to national security concerns. As the issue gains political traction ahead of upcoming elections, the government is also considering actions against platforms that screen unapproved content. This article delves into the implications of these developments for the film industry and OTT content regulation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 16, 2026, 04:47 IST

Controversy Surrounding 'Satluj' Sparks Regulatory Review

In light of the ongoing controversy regarding the film 'Satluj', the government is contemplating making Censor Board certification a prerequisite for releasing films and similar content on OTT platforms. Reports indicate that amendments to the IT Rules 2021 are being considered to ensure that OTT content is subject to Censor Board oversight prior to its release. This move follows the uproar over 'Satluj', which debuted without the necessary clearances.

Mandatory Certification and Clearance Under Review

The government is exploring the possibility of enforcing mandatory certification and clearance from the Censor Board before any film can be made available on OTT platforms. This would require changes to the existing IT Rules. A senior official mentioned that action against the intermediary ZEE5 is also being contemplated for airing the uncensored film 'Satluj', which was still under review by the Censor Board, with several cuts recommended.

Currently, OTT content is not regulated by the Censor Board.

'Satluj' Removed from ZEE5 Following Government Directive

The film was taken down from ZEE5 just two days after its release on July 3, following a government directive citing national security concerns. Regarding the unauthorized screenings of 'Satluj' at private venues, the official stated that it is the responsibility of state governments to enforce the law and take action against violators.

Directed by Honey Trehan, 'Satluj' tells the story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated the cremation of thousands of unidentified bodies in Punjab from 1984 to 1994 and was abducted and murdered by police in 1995.

Private Screenings of 'Satluj' Continue Amid Political Tensions

Despite the controversy, 'Satluj' is reportedly still being screened privately in various locations, including Gurdwaras across Punjab, with the issue becoming increasingly politicized as assembly elections approach next year. Part III of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, grants the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting the authority to invoke Section 69A of the IT Act, which allows for oversight of OTT content not covered by the Censor Board.

Section 69A permits the government to block online content for reasons related to national sovereignty, security, and public order. A committee established by the government to review the content of 'Satluj' has reportedly recommended that the ban on its public access via online streaming platforms should remain in place, as the film allegedly undermines India's sovereignty and integrity.