Potential Changes in India's OTT Regulations Sparked by Diljit Dosanjh's Satluj Controversy

The controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh's film Satluj has raised questions about India's OTT regulations. The Central government is considering making CBFC certification mandatory for films released on streaming platforms. This proposal comes after allegations that Satluj was screened without the necessary certification, leading to legal concerns. As the government evaluates this potential change, it could significantly impact how films are released digitally in India. The situation remains fluid, with no official decisions made yet, but the implications for the film industry could be profound.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 15, 2026, 19:18 IST

Controversy Surrounding Satluj and Its Implications

The ongoing debate regarding Diljit Dosanjh's film Satluj may prompt significant revisions to India's OTT regulations. Reports indicate that the Central government is contemplating the requirement of Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) approval for films that are released directly on streaming platforms. This consideration arises after Satluj was allegedly made available for public viewing without the necessary CBFC certification, raising legal and regulatory issues. Although no formal decision has been made yet, sources within the government suggest that this proposal is actively being evaluated, which could fundamentally change the landscape of film releases on OTT platforms in India.

CBFC Certification for OTT Films Under Review

CBFC certifications of OTT films in India

As reported by a media outlet, the government is looking into whether films debuting on streaming services should be mandated to secure CBFC certification prior to their release. This proposal is being considered in light of the Satluj controversy, where the film was streamed on Zee5 without reportedly having obtained a CBFC certificate. The report highlighted that releasing and screening the film without certification is legally questionable. Furthermore, it is the duty of state governments to pursue legal action in cases where unauthorized public screenings have occurred.

Additionally, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) or the Central government holds the power to mandate the removal of any film lacking certification from an OTT platform. Sources have indicated that such measures were taken regarding Satluj, which was subsequently taken down from Zee5. The government is also reportedly considering actions against Zee5 for streaming an uncertified version of the film, although no official directives have been issued yet.

Legal Actions and Controversies Surrounding Satluj

Satluj screenings are causing controversy

Recently, the Centre has urged state governments to take legal measures wherever Satluj screenings occur without the necessary certification. Reports suggest that Satluj did not complete the CBFC certification process, with the Board recommending over 100 cuts to the film, which the producers reportedly refused to implement. Consequently, no certification was granted, raising legal concerns regarding its release.

Despite the unresolved certification status, Satluj was released on Zee5 on July 3 after enduring several delays. However, it was only available for two days before being removed. Zee5 issued a brief statement citing "current circumstances" as the reason for the removal but did not provide further details.