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Government Orders Takedown Over Security Concerns
The Indian government directed streaming platform ZEE5 to remove the film Satluj from its catalogue in India less than 48 hours after its July 3 release, citing security concerns under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act .
The film, starring actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh, portrays the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who documented allegations of extrajudicial killings and mass cremations of Sikhs during counter-insurgency operations in Punjab in the 1980s and 1990s .
A government inter-departmental committee later recommended the ban remain, observing that the film’s narrative was “unbalanced” and “aligns with the structure of pro-Khalistan propaganda” . The panel also raised concerns about potential misuse by Pakistan-based actors to spread separatist ideology .
Four-Year Censorship Battle
The film had faced a prolonged dispute with the Central Board of Film Certification since 2022. Director Honey Trehan claimed the board sought 127 cuts, including removal of Khalra’s name and references to historical events . After failing to secure court relief, the makers withdrew their petition in January 2025 and opted for a direct digital release without cuts .
Public Screenings and Political Response
Despite the ban, the film has gained underground popularity in Punjab, with community-led public screenings organized in villages, gurdwaras, and community halls . Political parties, including the Shiromani Akali Dal, have announced plans to screen the film ahead of the 2027 Punjab elections .
Diljit responded on social media, saying he had expected the action and urging fans to share downloaded copies . The film has since been removed from ZEE5 Global as well .
