The film Satluj,starring Diljit Dosanjh,was yanked from ZEE5 just 48 hours after its July 3 release. Directed by Honey Trehan,it's been stuck for three years due to certification issues from Central Board of Film Certification. The film tells story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra,who sought justice for state violence victims and was assassinated for his efforts.
In interview,co-writer Niren Bhatt was stunned by film's sudden removal. "I was shocked that why it was taken down,and today, finally, there is some relief,reason that is news that there is a special committee which will be reviewing the film," he said. Bhatt stressed that the film is deeply researched,based on judicial history and Supreme Court rulings.
Bhatt talked about Khalra's important work, noting his fight for families unable to get death certificates for missing loved ones. Khalra risked his life for justice. "He fought for poor families where maa-baap ko death certificates nahi mil rahe hai,wife ka husband missing hai (aur) uske account mein paise nahi mil rahe, bete ko baap ka inheritance nahi mil raha hai." Khalra's work led to his murder,but courts held those responsible accountable .
Film's removal raises questions on ZEE5's decision. Bhatt insists film shows events validated by judiciary,with media coverage and Supreme Court verdicts backing narrative .
Bhatt sees Satluj as story of humanity and peace. A key scene with Arjun Rampal's character talks about Punjab's end of violence in 1995,suggesting a shift to stability. "We have seen the glorified Punjab, mustard fields, romantic image - those things came because of this. It is a story of humanity and peace," he said.
With film under review by special committee,Bhatt is hopeful Satluj will stream again soon. He believes the committee will see film's value and message . The film features performances by Geetika Vidya Ohlyan, Suvinder Vicky,and Kanwaljit Singh, adding to its depth.
Satluj's quick removal sparks debates on censorship and showing sensitive history in Indian cinema . As audiences seek stories of real complexities, what the committee decides could set a precedent for future films tackling tough subjects.
