A government panel reviewing the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer Satluj has decided to confirm the Sunday orders that bar online streaming of the film. The panel cited national security concerns for the move and relied on the 2023 ruling of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which had refused to approve the film—then titled Ghallughara—in its present form.
Background of the Ban
The CBFC had sought 127 cuts to the film. The filmmakers moved court against the CBFC but did not get any relief. They finally dropped the case in July 2025 and streamed the film under a new name on ZEE5 last Friday. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's Interdepartmental Committee (IDC) on Sunday blocked the film and then met with its producers and ZEE5 to ask how a red-flagged film could stream online. The Tribune reported on Wednesday that the panel was speaking with stakeholders to determine how it landed on ZEE5.
Legal Basis for the Ban
While OTT platforms are not regulated in India, the IDC—a standing committee set up under the Information Technology Act, 2000—is empowered to review OTT content and block it if it threatens public safety. The IDC draws its powers from Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. This section allows the government to block public access to any information in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India, defence, security, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, or for preventing incitement to cognizable offenses. The Sunday orders blocking the film were also passed based on this section.
Composition of the IDC
The IDC, which has representation from all major ministries, including Home, was constituted in 2021 under IT Act rules and reviews controversial online content. The panel's decision to uphold the ban underscores the government's stance on content that may pose a threat to national security.
