Satluj, the latest movie of Diljit Dosanjh, has now become the topic of much controversy following its unceremonial removal from the online platform Zee5 within a few days of its OTT release. As per the news reports, the government had ordered Zee5 to remove the movie, stating security reasons and compliance with the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. However, no official public statement has yet been made by the government in regard to the above decision and the issue has once again become the subject of debate over censorship and digital streaming laws.
This movie is based on the story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra and it was first named as Punjab 95. The movie has undergone the process of getting certified for more than three years.
Why Was Satluj Taken Down?
As per PTI report, government officials have asked Zee5 to take down the movie for security reasons. It was stated that the instructions were asking the platform to abide by its duties as per the provisions of IT Rules, 2021.
Even though no certification is needed for OTT platforms under CBFC, there are certain rules and regulations for digital media as per Indian laws. There has been a lot of discussion on this issue on how such rules can be applied to streaming movies.
CBFC Dispute Over Panjab 95
The film was earlier sent to the CBFC for certification in 2022, where it was titled Panjab 95. It is claimed that the process for certification was delayed as the filmmakers had allegedly failed to make the 127 cuts recommended by the board.
It was only after several years of delay that the movie quietly came on Zee5 under the name Satluj. As per the alleged official version, the release of the movie on OTT without making the required modifications was one of the most important factors responsible for the controversy.
OTT Release Triggered Fresh Questions
Unlike in the case of films shown in theatres, OTT movies are not directly certified by the CBFC. But, the streaming websites come under the jurisdiction of Information Technology Rules that have certain conditions pertaining to digital content.
The alleged takedown of Satluj has reignited debates concerning the difference between the processes of theatrical certification and OTT certification.
Debate Over Creative Freedom Continues
Satluj is again raising the age-old issue of the debate between artistic liberty, content regulation, and security of the nation. Although there are people who support the filmmakers' artistic liberty, some people feel that the digital platform needs to adhere to the law of the land.
At present, Satluj is not available on Zee5 as we wait for further news from either the filmmakers or the platform.