The controversy surrounding the OTT release of Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Satluj' escalated on Monday as the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) came out strongly in defense of the movie, demanding its reinstatement on ZEE5 after the streaming platform removed it following protests from certain Sikh groups.
SGPC calls film a tribute to Sikh history
The SGPC, the apex religious body of Sikhs, issued a statement saying that 'Satluj' is a respectful portrayal of Sikh history and martyrs. 'The film does not contain any objectionable content. It is a tribute to the sacrifices of our ancestors. We condemn the attempts to create unnecessary controversy,' said SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami. He urged ZEE5 to restore the film immediately.
Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal also backed the film, stating that the party stands with Diljit Dosanjh and the creative freedom of artists. 'Those who are protesting have not even seen the film. This is a motivated campaign to target a successful Punjabi artist,' Badal said.
ZEE5 removes film amid protests
The film 'Satluj', which was released on ZEE5 on July 4, was taken down on July 5 after a section of Sikhs alleged that it misrepresented historical events and hurt religious sentiments. The platform cited 'technical issues' for the removal, but sources indicated that it was a response to the backlash.
Diljit Dosanjh, who stars in and produced the film, has remained silent on the issue so far. However, his fans have started a campaign on social media demanding the film's return.
Political implications and free speech debate
The controversy has taken a political turn, with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab also weighing in. AAP spokesperson said that the government respects all religious sentiments but also believes in artistic freedom. 'We hope ZEE5 will take a fair decision after reviewing the content,' the spokesperson said.
The opposition Congress criticized the removal, calling it 'censorship by pressure groups'. Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa said, 'This sets a dangerous precedent. Films should not be removed without proper review.'
The debate has now centered on the balance between religious sentiments and freedom of expression. Several film industry figures have expressed solidarity with Dosanjh, saying that OTT platforms should not succumb to 'bullying'.
SGPC demands judicial probe
In a further escalation, the SGPC has demanded a judicial inquiry into the events leading to the film's removal. 'We want to know who is behind this conspiracy to defame the Sikh community and the film,' Dhami added.
The Akali Dal has also announced that it will approach the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting if ZEE5 does not restore the film within a week.
The film 'Satluj' is set in the 18th century and revolves around the life of a Sikh warrior. It has been praised for its cinematography and performances, but critics have noted that it takes creative liberties with historical facts.
