Overview
- The streaming service ZEE5 removed Satluj from its India catalogue after the Information and Broadcasting Ministry said the film was released without completing required certification and the platform later took it down from its international library as the review continued.
- A Centre‑appointed Inter‑Departmental Committee recommended on Saturday that the block remain under Section 69A of the IT Act, arguing the title could be exploited by groups listed under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and by hostile foreign actors.
- The film’s brief July 3 release followed a multi‑year certification fight with the Central Board of Film Certification, which had sought about 127 cuts and a title change that the makers refused to accept.
- Copies of Satluj circulated online have led to volunteer screenings at gurdwaras and village halls across Punjab and Jammu and to widespread piracy, prompting a petition in the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking action to stop unauthorised public shows.
- The row has sharpened political mobilisation in Punjab, drawn support from Khalra’s family for an uncut release, and set up likely legal battles over censorship, enforcement of online blocks and the balance between national security and public access to historical accounts.