New Delhi | July 9, 2026
One of the biggest entertainment stories in India this week revolves around Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh and his latest film ‘Satluj’, a biographical drama inspired by the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. The film, which had already spent years facing certification hurdles, was quietly released on ZEE5 before being removed from the platform’s Indian catalogue within about 48 hours. The sudden takedown has triggered nationwide debate over censorship, freedom of expression, and the government’s powers over online content.
What Is the Film About?
‘Satluj’ tells the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a human rights activist who investigated allegations of illegal cremations and disappearances in Punjab during the militancy period of the 1990s. Because the subject deals with a sensitive chapter of Indian history, the project has remained controversial since production began. Before becoming Satluj, the film was known by earlier titles including ‘Punjab ’95’, and it reportedly underwent years of discussions over certification.
Why Was the Film Removed?
The film was released on ZEE5 in early July but disappeared from the platform just two days later. Soon afterward, reports said the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting referred the matter to an Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC) under the Information Technology Rules to examine the film after the takedown. Officials have not publicly released a detailed explanation for the decision, leaving many questions unanswered.
Public and Film Industry Reactions
The removal sparked strong reactions from filmmakers, actors, writers, and audiences. Several public figures expressed support for the film and questioned why it had been taken down so quickly. Supporters argued that audiences should be allowed to decide after watching the film, while others maintained that content dealing with sensitive historical issues should be examined carefully through legal and regulatory processes.
Community Screenings Across Punjab
Despite being unavailable on the OTT platform, the film has continued to reach audiences through community-organised screenings in parts of Punjab. According to actor Suvinder Vicky, villagers have arranged projector screenings in gurdwaras and public spaces, describing the effort as a form of “seva” to ensure the story continues to be seen.
Another Controversy: IMDb Rating Disappears
Adding to the debate, reports noted that the film’s IMDb rating, which had reached 9.5, later disappeared from the platform. Some members of the film industry questioned the lack of communication about the change, while the film has also reportedly faced piracy issues after its removal from streaming
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Diljit Dosanjh’s Response
Diljit Dosanjh addressed the controversy during an online interaction, saying he was not overly concerned about the takedown and suggesting that once a story reaches people, it cannot easily be silenced. His comments have been widely shared on social media and have further fueled discussion about artistic freedom and censorship.
What Happens Next?
The government’s review process is ongoing, and it remains unclear whether Satluj will return to streaming platforms in India, be released with changes, or remain unavailable. Until an official decision is announced, the film continues to dominate headlines, becoming one of the country’s most talked-about entertainment controversies—not only because of its subject matter, but also because it has reignited broader questions about creative freedom, regulation, and public access to politically sensitive stories.
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