Diljit Dosanjh’s controversial film Satluj has been removed from ZEE5 just a day after its OTT release, with sources indicating that concerns over certain portions of the film potentially being “misused by anti-India forces” prompted the decision.
Originally titled Punjab 95, the film had faced years of delays before finally premiering on ZEE5 last Friday under its new title, Satluj. However, the movie is now unavailable on the streaming platform after what sources described as a careful review.
Why Was Satluj Taken Down?
According to sources, authorities had raised concerns that certain scenes or narratives in the film could be exploited by anti-India elements.
The film had earlier sought clearance for a theatrical release but failed to receive approval in its existing form. It was subsequently released directly on the OTT platform without requiring certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), as OTT releases are governed by a different regulatory framework.
Sources said that while OTT content does not require CBFC certification, streaming platforms are expected to follow self-regulatory guidelines, with the government retaining oversight over content considered sensitive or capable of affecting public order and national interests.
Film Based On Punjab’s Militancy Era
Satluj, earlier known as Punjab 95, is inspired by the struggle of an activist attempting to expose alleged extrajudicial killings during the height of militancy in Punjab.
The film has remained under public scrutiny for years due to its sensitive subject matter and depiction of events from one of the most turbulent periods in Punjab’s history.
ZEE5 Confirms Film’s Removal
ZEE5 officially confirmed the removal of Satluj through a statement posted on Instagram, announcing that the film would remain unavailable for streaming in India until further notice.
Despite withdrawing the film, the platform reaffirmed its support for both the project and its creators.
“At ZEE5, we stand firmly by Satluj and the creative vision behind it. We believe powerful storytelling has the ability to inspire, endure and leave a lasting impact. We remain committed to championing authentic and meaningful narratives,” the platform said.
Platform Hopes To Restore The Film
The streaming service also stated that it intends to pursue all available legal and regulatory avenues to restore the film for Indian audiences.
“We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity. Our commitment to creators and to stories told with conviction, artistic integrity and purpose remains unwavering,” ZEE5 added.
OTT Regulations Under Spotlight
The incident has once again brought attention to the regulatory framework governing OTT platforms in India.
Unlike theatrical releases, films released directly on streaming platforms are not required to obtain CBFC certification. Instead, digital platforms operate under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, which mandate self-regulation while allowing government intervention in cases involving content considered sensitive.
The removal of Satluj has reignited discussions on the balance between artistic freedom, platform responsibility and national security concerns in India’s evolving digital entertainment landscape.