I&B Ministry Claims ‘Satluj’ Hit ZEE5 Without Proper Certification: Report
The controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh’s film Satluj has intensified following claims from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B). The ministry alleges that the film was released on ZEE5 without completing the necessary certification process. Premiering on the streaming platform on July 3, Satluj was taken down in India just two days later, raising questions about its compliance with regulatory standards.
Ministry Questions Satluj‘s OTT Release
An official from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stated that Satluj did not possess the required certification for a theatrical release prior to its debut on the OTT platform. “Satluj did not have the required certification for a theatrical release. Instead of complying with the certification process, the makers changed the film’s title and released it on an OTT platform on Friday,” the official remarked.
The ministry further alleged that the film’s release violated the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. However, officials did not specify which provisions were allegedly breached. Additionally, the ministry noted that it had not received any representation from the filmmakers seeking approval or reconsideration before the film’s digital release.
Long Journey from Panjab 95 to Satluj
Originally titled Panjab 95, the film draws inspiration from the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated alleged illegal disappearances and mass cremations during Punjab’s militancy era. The project was submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2022, where it faced significant hurdles. Reports indicated that the board initially recommended 27 cuts along with a title change. The filmmakers challenged this decision in court, leading to a revision committee suggesting around 120 cuts.
After years of legal battles, the film eventually premiered on ZEE5 under the title Satluj. Notably, it was released in its original version without implementing the suggested cuts, which has raised further questions about its certification status.
ZEE5 Removes the Film from India
On July 5, ZEE5 confirmed that Satluj had been withdrawn from streaming in India. The platform stated, “In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice. We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity.”
The streaming service did not disclose the specific reasons for the removal, only citing “current developments.” Directed by Honey Trehan, Satluj is produced by RSVP Movies and MacGuffin Pictures. Alongside Diljit Dosanjh, the film features Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan in key roles. Since its removal, the film has garnered support from various public figures, many of whom are advocating for its return to Indian audiences as the legal and regulatory issues continue to unfold.
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