Waris Punjab De delegation meets Governor Kataria over 'Satluj' ban
Leaders of the Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De) called on Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria in Chandigarh on Wednesday, urging him to ensure the ban on the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film 'Satluj' is lifted. The film, which focuses on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, was removed from the OTT platform Zee5 on July 5, just two days after its release.
Party leader says public emotions tied to the film
Waris Punjab De leader Manpreet Singh Ayali stated that people's emotions are deeply connected to the film. He noted that the party also held a meeting in Tarn Taran on Tuesday and submitted a memorandum to the local administration demanding the re-release of the film. The delegation's appeal to the governor underscores the political pressure surrounding the film's removal.
Waris Punjab De gaining momentum ahead of Assembly elections
On the party's political prospects, Ayali claimed that Waris Punjab De is receiving an overwhelming response from the masses. He revealed that over five names have emerged as potential candidates for the Assembly elections from each segment in the district, particularly in Sikh-dominated areas. “The organisation is getting excellent response from the masses. Things will become clearer in the coming days. One can see our party is gaining momentum,” added Ayali.
Background of the 'Satluj' film controversy
'Satluj' is a biographical drama based on the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a former Punjab Police officer who investigated human rights abuses during the militancy era in the 1990s. The film was released on Zee5 on July 3 but was taken down on July 5, sparking protests from various Sikh groups and political parties. The ban has been criticized by Waris Punjab De and others as an infringement on freedom of expression and a disregard for public sentiment.
