The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) issued a statement today declaring that it will organise public screenings of Diljit Dosanjh‑starrer Satluj across villages, towns and cities in Punjab. The decision comes after the film was taken down from the ZEE5 platform in India, a move the party describes as an attempt to suppress a crucial chapter of Sikh history.

Background of the Film ‘Satluj’

Directed by Honey Trehan and originally titled ‘Punjab ’95’, the film is based on the life of human‑rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. Khalra documented thousands of alleged illegal cremations and disappearances during the insurgency years of the 1990s, before being abducted and murdered in 1995. The narrative covers Operation Blue Star, the 1984 anti‑Sikh riots and the alleged fake police encounters that followed, which SAD calls “an unspeakable tragedy faced by the Sikh community”.

The Ban and Legal Battle

After a protracted standoff with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) — which demanded numerous cuts — the filmmakers bypassed a theatrical release and premiered the uncut version on ZEE5 under the new title ‘Satluj’ on July 3. Within 48 hours, the platform removed the movie from its Indian catalogue, citing “current developments”, while keeping it available on ZEE5 Global. Government sources later alleged that the film had been released without completing the required certification, prompting the Centre to refer the case to an Inter‑Departmental Committee under the Information Technology Rules.

SAD’s Counter‑Move

SAD argues that ‘Satluj’ is not merely a biopic but an essential historical record documenting the sacrifices of Sikh activists. The party has instructed every worker, office‑bearer and leader to arrange screenings in “every nook and corner” of Punjab, emphasizing that “Shiromani Akali Dal will never remain a mute witness to this injustice”. The strategy appears aimed at both preserving collective memory and challenging the narrative advanced by the incumbent Congress‑aligned administration.

Potential Implications

If the screenings gain traction, they could set a precedent for political parties to bypass traditional distribution channels and bring contested content directly to the public. The episode also raises broader questions about freedom of expression, historical accountability and the role of state institutions in regulating cultural narratives. The government's next steps—whether to grant retroactive certification or enforce a permanent ban—will test the resilience of India’s democratic framework.