The film Satluj, featuring Diljit Dosanjh and inspired by the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, was removed from the ZEE5 streaming platform just two days following its release. The Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced that the film was made available without the necessary certification, raising concerns about compliance with regulatory standards.

According to the ministry’s statements, the film lacked the requisite certification for theatrical release and was allegedly launched online in contravention of procedural guidelines. ZEE5 confirmed that the film will not be accessible to Indian audiences until further notice.

Officials from the Ministry indicated that the filmmakers had not completed the necessary certification process. An official cited by ANI noted, “Satluj did not have the required certification for a theatrical release. Rather than following the certification process, the makers changed the film’s title and released it on an OTT platform on Friday.”

Ministry Highlights Breach of Digital Media Regulations

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting asserted that the film’s release violated the provisions of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, although the specific provisions that were purportedly breached were not disclosed. The authorities alleged that the film was launched despite recommendations for nearly 100 cuts by the certification body.

Instead of implementing the suggested changes, the filmmakers reportedly altered the film’s title and proceeded with its release on the OTT platform. The Ministry also stated that they had not received any request from the filmmakers for approval or reconsideration prior to the film’s launch.

In an official statement, ZEE5 said, “In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice. We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity.”

Reactions Following the Film’s Removal

Following the film’s withdrawal from ZEE5, Diljit Dosanjh addressed the situation during a live session on Instagram. He indicated that the outcome was anticipated, stating, “My love and respect to all of you. What I had already expected is exactly what happened. I thought the film might get banned when offices opened on Monday, but I did not expect it would happen as early as Sunday evening.”

Despite the film’s removal, Dosanjh expressed contentment that the film had already reached audiences. He remarked, “But now I have the satisfaction that at least our work has reached people the way we wanted it to. People have already downloaded it.” He was particularly pleased to learn that screenings were being held at Gurudwara Sahib, calling it a source of immense joy.

Satluj, directed by Honey Trehan, also features notable actors such as Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan. The film’s narrative revolves around themes of human rights and social justice, further highlighting the historical legacy of its central figure, Jaswant Singh Khalra.

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