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.
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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.
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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.
