Government sources have revealed that the OTT platform Zee5 removed the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film 'Satluj' due to concerns that certain portions could be misused by anti-India forces. The decision came a day after the film was taken down, with sources emphasizing that national security concerns outweighed all other considerations.
National Security Concerns Cited
According to government sources, parts of the film had the potential to be exploited to draw support for the pro-Khalistan movement, especially with elections approaching in Punjab. "National security concerns outweigh everything else in such matters and this is not about politics," the sources stated.
Zee5 had confirmed the takedown on Sunday via an Instagram post, announcing that 'Satluj' would not be available in India until further notice. The film is based on the life of activist Jaswant Singh Khalra of Amritsar, who worked on alleged extrajudicial killings in Punjab during the height of militancy in the state.
Film's Troubled History
Originally titled 'Punjab 95', the film faced delays after being submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2022. The board demanded 127 cuts, and the film was not released in theaters. It eventually premiered on OTT platform Zee5 before being taken down.
The film's subject matter—extrajudicial killings during the Punjab insurgency—has historically been a sensitive topic, and the authorities feared that certain scenes could be weaponized by separatist elements. The timing, with Punjab elections on the horizon, added to the urgency.
Political Reactions and Implications
The removal has sparked debate about censorship and freedom of expression in India. While the government maintains that the decision was driven solely by security concerns, critics argue that it stifles artistic and historical expression. The film's star, Diljit Dosanjh, has not publicly commented on the takedown.
As the situation unfolds, the film's availability in other regions remains unclear. Zee5 has not specified whether 'Satluj' will be reinstated after the election period or if further edits are required.
