The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's high-level Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC) has summoned film producer Ronnie Screwvala and ZEE5 authorities to explain how the controversial Diljit Dosanjh-starrer 'Satluj' was streamed online despite previous red flags from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the courts.
Film Previously Denied CBFC Clearance
The film, originally titled 'Ghallughara', was first submitted to the CBFC for certification in December 2022. Official records reveal that the CBFC communicated its reservations about the film in May 2023, citing potential adverse consequences for national security. The filmmakers subsequently moved court against the CBFC's orders requiring content alterations and cuts, but the court did not grant relief. The filmmakers eventually withdrew the case on January 7, 2025.
OTT Platform's Claim of Ignorance
Top sources told The Tribune that ZEE5 and the film's producers have informed the IDC that they were unaware of the past red flags surrounding the film. However, government officials maintain that the film's past and the reasons for its non-clearance were well known. "The filmmakers have now altered the name and streamed the content online when everything about the film's past and reasons for why it was not cleared are known. This is a question for the OTT platform in question and the film producers and promoters to answer," an official source stated.
IDC's Interim Order and Legal Framework
The IDC, a standing committee under the Information Technology Rules-2021, acts as the government's apex review panel for OTT content. On Sunday, July 6, 2026, the committee passed interim orders blocking 'Satluj' online. It is now hearing stakeholders before issuing a final order for takedown or otherwise. The takedown was ordered under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act-2000, which empowers the government to block public access to any information in the interest of sovereignty, integrity, defence, security, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, or for preventing incitement to cognisable offences.
Film's Allegations and National Security Concerns
The film 'Satluj' accuses the Punjab Police and the then Congress government of extra-judicial killings. The government has flagged the film for its potential impact on national security, given its sensitive content. The IDC's examination focuses on how the film bypassed regulatory hurdles to land on an OTT platform despite the CBFC's earlier objections and the court's refusal to grant relief.
The development marks a significant step in the regulation of OTT content in India, as the government moves to ensure compliance with certification norms and national security considerations.
