Zee5's sudden removal of the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film 'Satluj' on July 5, 2026, has triggered a political firestorm in Punjab, just months before the state assembly elections.
The biographical film, directed by Honey Trehan, is based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated extrajudicial killings during Punjab's militancy period.
Originally titled 'Punjab 95', the film faced a three-year censorship battle with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) before debuting uncut on July 3, 2026, under its new title.
Political Reactions
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal publicly condemned Zee5's decision, calling it an assault on truth and freedom of expression.
"Shocked and saddened by the arbitrary removal of Satluj from ZEE5 in India.
This is not mere censorship - it is an assault on our collective memory, truth, and freedom of expression," Badal said on X.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) also supported the film, urging the public to engage with its historical narrative.
"The film attempts to bring to light the true events of a period when Punjab was going through difficult times," said SGPC chief secretary Kulwant Singh Mannan.
Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, the Jathedar of the Akal Takht, commented on the film's relevance, noting that fake encounters remain a concern today.
Congress MP Tariq Anwar said there is no need for politics if the film is based on facts, while AAP leader Aman Arora urged caution to ensure historical representations do not harm social unity.
Filmmaker's Struggle
Lead actor Diljit Dosanjh responded to the suspension by sharing a promotional still on Instagram with the caption, "I challenge the darkness."
Director Honey Trehan detailed the repeated demands from the CBFC to change the title, alter dialogue, and remove specific visuals before the film's release.
"Amongst the cuts demanded are the ones that 'we have verbally been told are non-negotiable'. Change Khalra's name.
Drop any visuals of the Indian flag. Take out all sounds of the 'gurbani'.
Don't say Punjab police," Trehan told SCREEN.
Following the removal, Trehan expressed a sense of betrayal, drawing a parallel to historical events: "Thirty years later, it feels as if Jaswant Singh Khalra is being abducted again."
Zee5 issued an official statement on Instagram acknowledging audience feedback and explaining their legal stance regarding the film's availability in India.
