Diljit Dosanjh’s film, Satluj, has been removed from ZEE5’s international library, marking a notable development occurring a week after its initial withdrawal. Reports confirm that this removal took place on the evening of July 11, 2026. Director Honey Trehan stated affirmatively in an interview, “Yes,” when asked about the film’s complete removal.

Originally submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2022, Satluj has not yet received the required clearance certificate. The film’s journey has been marked by challenges, including its abrupt removal from the streaming platform, which began a series of controversies regarding its release.

In the days following its withdrawal from ZEE5, the film’s IMDb user rating was also taken down, further fuelling discussions around the title and its reception. Allegations suggest that the CBFC demanded 127 cuts for Satluj prior to its certification, contributing to the difficulties faced by the production team.

Film’s Background and Controversies

Initially titled Punjab ’95, Satluj was intended to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023, but that screening was cancelled after objections reportedly came from Indian authorities. This series of events highlights the contentious nature of the film, which focuses on the significant issues surrounding human rights activism in Punjab.

The narrative centres on the struggles faced by activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, particularly in relation to the alleged fake encounters and illegal mass cremations during the militant period in Punjab. Despite its troubled path, the film garnered attention for its poignant subject matter, attracting both praise and scrutiny.

On July 3, the film was released on ZEE5 without any promotional activities. As positive reviews started to emerge, the decision to pull it from the platform was made, raising questions about the underlying reasons. ZEE5 later issued a statement reaffirming their support for the film but did not clarify why it was removed, citing “current developments.”

Public Reaction and Actor’s Statement

In light of these events, Diljit Dosanjh took to Instagram Live on the morning of July 10, 2026, to engage with his fans. During the session, he expressed his foresight regarding the film’s removal, stating that he was aware it would be pulled down the following day. He encouraged his viewers to share the film with those who had not yet seen it, indicating his commitment to the subject matter it presents.

The actor also reaffirmed his connection to Punjab, declaring that he would remain dedicated to the region for his entire life. His remarks reflect his awareness of the film’s significance, even amidst its challenges in the industry. Alongside Diljit, the cast of Satluj includes actors Kanwaljeet Singh, Arjun Rampal, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan.

This entire situation continues to draw attention to the film’s themes and the implications of censorship in Indian cinema. The removal of Satluj from ZEE5 International has highlighted the complex interplay between artistic expression and regulatory oversight within the entertainment landscape in India.

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