Opposition Mounts Against OTT Removal of Film 'Satluj'
Opposition to the removal of the film “Satluj” from an OTT platform intensified on Tuesday. The film, based on the life and struggle of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, was taken down, prompting strong reactions from religious and political leaders.
Akal Takht Jathedar Condemns Move
Officiating Jathedar of the Akal Takht, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, condemned the decision, calling it an attack on the freedom of expression. He stated that blocking a film that highlights human rights violations against the Sikh community was unconstitutional and unjust. Gargaj emphasized that Khalra had documented records of alleged illegal cremations of unidentified Sikh youths killed during the militancy period in the 1990s, bringing the issue to the world’s attention. “Truth can never be permanently suppressed,” he said.
Protest by Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De)
Meanwhile, the Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De) held a protest march in Tarn Taran. Party leaders submitted a memorandum to the Governor through the Deputy Commissioner, demanding the restoration of the film and condemning the censorship.
Background of the Film and Khalra's Work
The film “Satluj” chronicles the efforts of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a human rights activist who investigated and exposed the alleged extrajudicial killings and illegal cremations of Sikh youths during the militancy era in Punjab in the 1990s. Khalra’s documentation brought international attention to the issue. The removal of the film has sparked debates on censorship and freedom of speech in India.
