‘Satluj’ is facing new backlash amid the ongoing controversy, as the film was removed from OTT platforms globally. According to the latest reports shared online, the film was released without clearing the certification process under CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification), and is now under review by an Inter-Departmental Committee.
Centre to hold off on ‘Satluj’ release until further notice
Despite the ongoing public backlash, the centre is holding off on releasing ‘Satluj’ for the time being. Mid Day reported that the Inter-Departmental Committee is currently reviewing the film under its Information Technology Rules. It will remain off OTT platforms globally until the committee announces the final verdict of its review.A statement from the report read, “The idea is to maintain one uniform position globally while the process is underway given the sensitivity of the story. This isn’t necessarily a permanent decision. Everyone is waiting for the committee’s observations before deciding the next course of action.”
Petition filed against ‘Satluj’ after screenings held in Jammu and Punjab
Over the past couple of days, screenings of pirated versions of ‘Satluj’ have been held in regions of Jammu and Punjab after it was removed from ZEE5. Amid the ongoing debate surrounding the film, an advocate shared online that he has filed a petition against these screenings of Diljit Dosanjh and Arjun Rampal’s movie.Advocate Vineet Jindal took to his X account (formerly known as Twitter) and shared that he recently filed a petition against the film, stating that the screenings held for ‘Satluj’, which was originally titled ‘Punjab 95 ’, are illegal. His post read, “By this Letter petition before the Hon’ble Chief Justice of the Punjab & Haryana High Court, I am seeking appropriate action against individuals, religious organisations, and political parties involved in organising illegal public screenings of the film. Such screenings are allegedly being used to promote violence and spread hatred against a community as well as the security agencies.”He further urged that authorities should take strict action and officially file FIRs against those who are holding the screenings, as it is illegal to show a film that has not been cleared for certification. He added, “These illegal acts pose a serious threat to peace, public order, and communal harmony in the State of Punjab. I have, therefore, sought appropriate directions to prevent such unlawful screenings and to ensure that those responsible are proceeded against in accordance with law.”
About ‘Satluj’
‘Satluj’, directed by Honey Trehan, was made around 3 years ago and chronicles the life and actions of activist Jaswant Singh Kalra.