The Satluj film controversy has intensified after the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) objected to the removal of Diljit Dosanjh-starrer Satluj from ZEE5. The Sikh body called the move an attempt to prevent audiences from accessing the story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra and announced plans for public screenings and educational discussions.
DSGMC Reacts To Satluj Removal
DSGMC President Harmeet Singh Kalka criticised the decision to remove the film and said Satluj highlights the work of Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated alleged human rights violations during Punjab’s troubled period in the 1990s.
Kalka said the film presents the journey of a social activist who raised questions about alleged illegal killings and disappearances. He added that restricting the film’s reach has caused disappointment among sections of the Sikh community.
The committee has announced plans to organise public screenings of the film and conduct seminars in educational institutions to discuss Khalra’s life, activism and contribution. DSGMC has also asked gurdwara committees to arrange screenings in their respective areas.
ZEE5 Removes Satluj After Review
The Satluj film controversy began after ZEE5 removed the movie from its platform in India shortly after its release. The streaming platform confirmed that the film would remain unavailable until further notice.
ZEE5 stated that it supports the film and its creative vision while exploring possible ways to bring it back through due process. Reports had earlier suggested concerns over certain portions of the film, which were said to require further review.
What Is Satluj About?
Directed by Honey Trehan, Satluj is based on the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a bank clerk-turned-human rights activist from Punjab.
The film portrays Khalra’s efforts to investigate alleged secret cremations and disappearances during the period of militancy and counter-insurgency operations in Punjab. Khalra disappeared in 1995, and years later, four Punjab Police personnel were convicted in connection with his abduction, torture and alleged murder. His body has never been found.
The Satluj film controversy has sparked wider discussions around historical storytelling, freedom of expression and the representation of sensitive events through cinema.
FAQs
Q1. What is the Satluj film controversy about?
The Satluj film controversy relates to the removal of the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer from ZEE5 and the reactions that followed from DSGMC and others.
Q2. Why did DSGMC oppose the Satluj removal?
DSGMC opposed the removal because it believes the film highlights Jaswant Singh Khalra’s life and human rights work and should reach audiences.
Q3. Who does Diljit Dosanjh play in Satluj?
Diljit Dosanjh plays Jaswant Singh Khalra, a human rights activist known for raising concerns about alleged disappearances in Punjab.
Q4. What has DSGMC announced after the Satluj controversy?
DSGMC has announced public screenings and educational seminars focusing on Jaswant Singh Khalra’s life and legacy.
