The removal of Diljit Dosanjh-starrer 'Satluj' from streaming platform ZEE5 has triggered a fierce debate in Punjab, with political leaders and activists clashing over the portrayal of the state's turbulent history. The film, originally titled 'Punjab 95', was released on ZEE5 on Friday and withdrawn on Sunday night, just two days later. It depicts the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated alleged human rights violations during the insurgency in Punjab in the 1980s and 1990s.
Government justifies removal citing election concerns
The government defended the removal, stating there were concerns that the film could be exploited to draw support for the pro-Khalistan movement ahead of the Punjab elections. The movie had gained significant traction in Punjab for its portrayal of the dark chapter of terrorism that plagued the state. However, the lack of a transparent explanation for the sudden withdrawal has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders and civil society.
Political reactions: Censorship or necessary caution?
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal condemned the move, calling it not censorship but 'an assault on our collective memory, truth and freedom of expression'. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP from Anandpur Sahib, Malwinder Kang, was among the first to react, stating: 'When a nation begins to fear its own history, censorship becomes its most dangerous weapon. I unequivocally condemn the unexplained removal of “Satluj” from ZEE5. A film that compels India to confront one of Punjab’s darkest chapters and portrays the alleged human rights violations of the 1980s-90s — brought to light through the struggle of Khalra — has suddenly been made unavailable without any transparent explanation… When a film raises uncomfortable questions about human rights violations and atrocities in Punjab, it disappears from an OTT platform. Why? Who is afraid of Punjab’s truth?'
AAP chief spokesperson Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal alleged a 'Congress-BJP nexus' behind the decision to remove the film. Eminent criminal lawyer and former Advocate General of Punjab RS Cheema told The Tribune that the Khalra case had been decided by the Supreme Court, which recorded that Khalra was a human rights activist assassinated by police officers. 'What is wrong with depicting this in a film?' he asked.
Hindu leaders support withdrawal to maintain peace
However, Hindu leaders in the state argued that while they believe in free expression, the dark events of Punjab's history should be used as lessons, not as propaganda to arouse sentiments, especially in a politically charged atmosphere with elections approaching. Veteran BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia said the film showcased the darkest side of Punjab history, which everyone wanted to bury. 'We only want to remind ourselves of this past so that it’s never repeated. Peace has been earned with great difficulty in Punjab. Such films rip open old wounds and are best avoided,' he said.
Echoing similar views, former minister and senior Congress leader Bharat Bhushan Ashu said such films have the tendency to disturb peace and communal harmony. 'It’s for everyone’s good that the movie has been withdrawn,' he added.
Background: Jaswant Singh Khalra and the film
Jaswant Singh Khalra was a human rights activist who documented extrajudicial killings and disappearances during the Punjab insurgency. He was killed in 1995, and his body was never found. The film 'Satluj' (originally 'Punjab 95') chronicles his life and the events surrounding his activism. The sudden removal from ZEE5 has raised questions about censorship and the freedom of expression in India, particularly regarding historical narratives.
