Diljit Dosanjh film pulled from streaming platform after two days
The film 'Satluj', starring Indian actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh, was removed from ZEE5 two days after its release, sparking controversy over alleged government intervention.
A film starring popular Indian actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh was abruptly removed from the streaming platform ZEE5 just two days after its release, igniting a row over censorship.
The film, titled 'Satluj', is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings during Punjab's separatist insurgency. Khalra himself disappeared in 1995 and was later found murdered. Several Punjab police officers were convicted for his killing.
Released on Friday, the film was taken down on Sunday. ZEE5 said in a statement that the film would be unavailable in India "until further notice" due to "current developments," without elaborating. A spokesperson for RSVP Movies, the film's producer, told The Indian Express that it was removed on government orders. The government has not publicly commented.
Completed in 2022, the film never had a theatrical release due to a prolonged dispute with India's Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Initially titled 'Ghallughara' and later 'Punjab '95', it was eventually renamed 'Satluj'. Director Honey Trehan said the CBFC initially sought 21 cuts, which eventually grew to 127, including a new title, removal of references to Khalra, and edits to scenes of police violence. The filmmakers challenged the demands in court but later withdrew their petition, hoping to secure certification. However, the film remained in limbo for nearly three years.
Because it was released directly on a streaming platform, it did not require CBFC certification. Streaming platforms like ZEE5 are governed by India's Information Technology Rules, 2021, which mandate age ratings and a grievance mechanism but do not exempt them from takedown orders.
In a live social media video, Dosanjh addressed the removal, saying he had expected a ban but not so quickly. He noted that the uncertainty had forced the makers to keep promotions minimal, fearing the film would not be released at all.
Despite its brief availability, 'Satluj' received strong reviews. The Hollywood Reporter called it "one of the finest Indian films of the year."
ZEE5 stated it stood by the film and its creative vision, hoping to bring it back soon without specifying a timeline.
