Controversy related to Diljit Dosanjh Satluj There may be significant changes in the way films are released on streaming platforms in India. According to a report in India Today, the Center is considering making certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) mandatory for films premiering directly on OTT platforms.
Amid Sutlej row, Center may make CBFC certification mandatory for direct OTT releases: Report
The report states that this proposal has come later Satluj It was streamed on ZEE5 earlier this month without a CBFC certificate. At present, no official announcement has been made by the government regarding the proposed policy change.
Action against ZEE5 is reportedly also being considered
The report quoting government sources claims that the screening Satluj Was not legally permitted without CBFC certification. Sources further said that it is the responsibility of the respective state governments to initiate criminal proceedings if the film is publicly screened without the necessary certification.
According to the report, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), or the Centre, also has the power to direct streaming platforms to remove uncertified movies. It states that this power was exercised in case of Satluj.
The report further adds that the government is investigating whether action should also be initiated against ZEE5 for allegedly streaming an uncertified version of the film. However, no official decision has been announced on this matter yet.
Government reportedly investigating changes in OTT rules
The publication also reports that the Center is exploring whether all films releasing directly on OTT platforms should be required to obtain CBFC certification before streaming, just like films releasing in theatres.
If the proposal is implemented, filmmakers will need to secure a CBFC certificate before premiering their films on digital platforms. According to reports, the government is considering amending the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) rules to bring in such a requirement.
The development comes a day after the Center reportedly asked state governments to initiate legal action Satluj The investigation is conducted publicly without necessary authentication.
What is Satluj Controversy?
For those unfamiliar with this issue, Satluj Based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. This was the original title of the film Punjab ’95 And was submitted to CBFC for certification several years ago. However, it was never approved for release in that form.
After about two years, this film was released with the same name on July 3 on ZEE5. SatlujReportedly without cuts or CBFC certification. It was removed from the platform after just two days.
