The Controversial Removal of ‘Satluj’: Why the Diljit Dosanjh Starrer Was Pulled from ZEE5
Lukesh Umak
Jul 7, 2026
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The release and subsequent removal of the film Satluj (formerly titled Punjab 95) has become one of the most talked-about events in Indian cinema. Starring Diljit Dosanjh as the human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, the film’s journey from production to streaming has been marred by years of censorship battles, title changes, and, ultimately, an abrupt takedown from the ZEE5 platform in India.
A Long Road to Release
The film, directed by Honey Trehan, centres on the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra, who gained national and international attention in the 1990s for uncovering evidence of thousands of unidentified bodies being illegally cremated in Punjab.
For nearly three years, the project remained in limbo due to a protracted conflict with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Reports indicate that the board demanded an unprecedented number of cuts—ranging from 85 to 127 in various accounts—and insisted on changes to the film’s title to avoid controversy. After failing to secure a theatrical release, the makers finally opted for a direct-to-OTT release on ZEE5 on July 3, 2026, under the new title Satluj.
Why Was ‘Satluj’ Removed by ZEE5?
Within just 48 hours of its quiet premiere, ZEE5 abruptly removed Satluj from its Indian catalogue. The platform issued a statement citing “current developments” as the reason for the move.
Behind the scenes, government officials revealed that the Centre had directed the streamer to pull the film, citing “security concerns” and obligations under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. Because OTT platforms are not under the direct jurisdiction of the CBFC, the government intervened using its powers to regulate digital content, arguing that the film’s subject matter—depicting police brutality and state excesses during the insurgency era in Punjab—could pose risks to public order.
What’s Next?
As of now, Satluj remains unavailable to viewers in India, though it continues to be accessible on ZEE5 Global for international audiences. ZEE5 has maintained that it is exploring legal avenues and “due process” to bring the film back to Indian viewers, though no timeline has been provided.