After the controversial film ‘Satluj’ was removed from Zee5, actor Kanwaljit Singh argued that the ban only fuels curiosity and pushes viewers toward piracy. He claims the decision stems from an unwillingness to accept the film’s hard‑hitting truth.
Veteran actor Kanwaljit Singh told a recent interview that the removal of his latest movie Satluj (originally titled Punjab 95) from Zee5 was a government‑driven move to avoid confronting uncomfortable truths. The film, which delves into Punjab’s turbulent 1980‑1990 period, was taken down just 48 hours after its OTT debut, while pirated copies flooded the internet, boosting its popularity.
Plot, Controversy and Political Sensitivity
‘Satluj’ chronicles the investigations of human‑rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who exposed alleged illegal cremations of unidentified bodies during the state’s counter‑insurgency operations. The cast includes Diljit Dosanjh, Arjun Rampal, Suvinder Vicky and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan, lending the project both star power and gravitas. By portraying extrajudicial killings and secret detentions, the film touched a nerve in political circles that prefer certain chapters of history remain unspoken.
Official Reasons for the Ban
According to multiple reports, the Centre instructed Zee5 to pull the movie citing “security concerns” and compliance with the 2021 Information Technology Rules. The film had applied for CBFC certification in 2022 under its original title but stalled after refusing to implement 127 cuts suggested by the board. Consequently, the producers released it on OTT with a new title, a move that fell outside CBFC jurisdiction and attracted governmental scrutiny.
Kanwaljit’s Response and Legal Recourse
Kanwaljit remarked, “Whatever the rationale, those responsible simply couldn’t digest the truth. Banning the film only sparks more curiosity and drives audiences to illegal downloads.” He added that the ban has backfired, turning the film into a viral underground sensation. The producers are now considering legal action to reinstate the movie, arguing that the removal hurts their financial interests while undermining the principle of free speech.
Memorable Praise from Naseeruddin Shah
In a lighter moment, Kanwaljit recalled a phone call from legendary actor Naseeruddin Shah, who attempted to compliment him in Punjabi – “Your Punjabi was terrible, but I loved the film!” – leaving Kanwaljit both amused and humbled. Such endorsement from a cinema icon reinforces the actor’s belief that artistic merit transcends bureaucratic hurdles.
