The Centre is set to scrutinize the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film Satluj, referring it to an Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC) operating under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. This development follows the film's removal from streaming platform ZEE5, prompted by government directives citing "security concerns."
Government Scrutiny Over 'Satluj'
The IDC holds significant power, with options ranging from content modification to outright blocking of online content under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. The film, directed by Honey Trehan, is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. It premiered on ZEE5 on July 3, 2026, but was taken down just two days later, on July 5.
ZEE5 Removes Film Amid Concerns
Security agencies reportedly expressed fears that Satluj could inadvertently fuel the pro-Khalistani movement and sway public sentiment, particularly ahead of upcoming Punjab Assembly elections. Sources indicate that while the film portrays historical events, authorities worried that certain narratives could be exploited by separatist elements to mobilize support.
Understanding Section 69A and IT Rules
Section 69A grants the Central Government authority to direct the blocking of online content when deemed necessary for India's sovereignty and integrity, defense, state security, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, or to prevent incitement to a cognizable offense. The IDC, established by the IT Rules, 2021, will meticulously examine the film and propose a course of action, which could include warnings, disclaimers, content modification, reclassification, deletion, or blocking.
Furthermore, Rule 16 of the IT Rules provides an emergency mechanism, enabling an authorized officer to recommend immediate blocking if any delay is deemed unacceptable.
CBFC Clearance Bypass Allegations
Initially titled Punjab '95, the filmmakers had sought certification for a theatrical release in 2022. However, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) proposed several cuts. According to officials, the makers then released the movie directly on OTT with a new title, bypassing the CBFC's jurisdiction over streaming platforms. "When the matter came to the government's notice, ZEE5 was asked to take it down," an official stated, emphasizing that the directive was issued due to security concerns and to ensure compliance with intermediary guidelines.
Diljit Dosanjh Reacts to Controversy
Actor Diljit Dosanjh, commenting on the controversy following the film's removal, expressed that he had anticipated such a reaction. During an Instagram Live session, he remarked, "I was absolutely certain this would happen," adding that once a film has been viewed, "it cannot be erased."
The Story of Jaswant Singh Khalra
Satluj chronicles the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a human rights activist who uncovered the alleged illegal cremation of thousands of unidentified bodies in Punjab during the tumultuous militancy years. Khalra himself was abducted in 1995 and subsequently murdered. In 2005, four Punjab Police personnel were convicted in his case, with their sentences later enhanced to life imprisonment by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.