Controversy related to Diljit Dosanjh Satluj In a new twist, the film was released on ZEE5 without completing the required certification process after the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) claimed that the film was released on ZEE5 without completing the required certification process. The film, directed by Honey Trehan, premiered on the streaming platform on July 3, but was pulled in India two days later.
I&B Ministry alleges Sutlej released on ZEE5 without completing certification: Report
The ministry has now alleged that the filmmakers have released the film on OTT instead of following the prescribed certification process after facing problems with theatrical clearance.
Ministry raised questions on OTT release of Satluj
According to an ANI report, an official of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said that the film did not have the necessary certification for theatrical release before arriving on the streaming platform.
“Sutlej did not have the required certification for theatrical release. Instead of following the certification process, the makers changed the title of the film and released it on an OTT platform on Friday,” the official said.
The ministry further alleged that the release violated the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. However, officials did not identify the specific provision that was allegedly violated.
The ministry also said that it has not received any representation from the filmmakers for approval or reconsideration before releasing the film digitally.
Long journey from Punjab 95 to Satluj
originally titled Punjab 95The film is inspired by the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated alleged illegal disappearances and mass cremations during Punjab’s insurgency era.
The project was submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2022. Reports revealed that the board had initially recommended 27 cuts along with the title change. The filmmakers challenged this decision in court, after which a revision committee reportedly suggested around 120 cuts.
After years of legal proceedings, the film finally premiered on ZEE5 under the title Satluj. According to reports, it was released in its original version without the reported cuts implemented.
ZEE5 has removed the film from India
ZEE5 confirmed this on 5 July Satluj Was removed from streaming in India. The platform said, “In view of the current developments, Sutlej will remain unavailable in India until further notice. We are committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through the due process to bring the film back to our audiences as soon as possible.”
The streamer has not disclosed the reason for its removal other than to cite “current events.”
Directed by Honey Trehan, Satluj Supported by RSVP Movies and MacGuffin Pictures. Apart from Diljit Dosanjh, Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljeet Singh, Suvinder Vicky and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan are in important roles in the film. Since its removal, the film has received support from several public figures, with many calling for its return to Indian audiences while legal and regulatory issues arise.
