Legal Action Looms Over Diljit Dosanjh's Film 'Satluj' Amid Certification Issues
Government's Legal Considerations Regarding 'Satluj'
The Central government is reportedly contemplating legal measures concerning the release and public screenings of Diljit Dosanjh's film, 'Satluj'. Recent reports indicate that the film was made available online without obtaining a valid certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The CBFC had requested 127 edits before granting approval, but the filmmakers did not comply with these demands. Although 'Satluj' was launched on Zee5, it was removed within two days. Nevertheless, the film has been shown at various locations, including gurdwaras.
Reasons Behind Potential Legal Action Against 'Satluj'
As per a report, the certification process for the film was never finalized. The CBFC had proposed numerous cuts, which the filmmakers allegedly rejected. Consequently, the absence of a certification renders the release unauthorized. The government is believed to have instructed state authorities to intervene and take action against any public screenings of 'Satluj', including those held in gurdwaras and community centers across multiple states, as these events also lack the necessary clearance.
This film, which centers around human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been embroiled in a protracted legal struggle. It faced nearly four years of delays for its release, initially titled 'Punjab '95' before being renamed 'Satluj' for its debut on ZEE5. Officials have noted that while OTT platforms are governed by distinct IT regulations, films intended for public exhibition still require CBFC approval.
Release and Subsequent Removal of 'Satluj'
'Satluj' was finally made available on Zee5 on July 3, following years of certification challenges. However, it was taken down from the platform within just two days, with Zee5 citing 'current circumstances' without elaborating further. Reports suggest that the removal was prompted by government concerns regarding security and compliance with IT Rules, 2021. To date, neither the Information and Broadcasting Ministry nor Zee5 has provided a public explanation for this sudden withdrawal.
In response to the film's removal, community organizations have taken action. Gurdwaras in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Jammu have begun screening the film to ensure that Khalra's narrative continues to reach audiences despite its absence from streaming services. Meanwhile, a petition has been submitted to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, seeking the film's reinstatement on Zee5. The petition argues that the removal occurred without any public statutory or judicial directive and questions the transparency of the decision-making process, asserting that the film is based on events already documented in public records and previously reviewed by courts and official entities.