Punjab Police have formally approached the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) requesting a ban on public access to the upcoming documentary series 'Lawrence of Punjab,' which is scheduled to premiere on an OTT platform on April 27. The series explores the life and criminal rise of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, and police officials have raised serious concerns about its content.
Punjab Police Raise Concerns Over 'Lawrence of Punjab' Content
According to ANI, in a formal communication, Special Director General of Police (Cyber Crime) V. Neeraja conveyed the state police's apprehensions regarding the documentary. The series reportedly includes dramatized sequences alongside real-life references to notable crimes, such as the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala and other violent incidents. Officials fear that the documentary may glorify and trivialize organized crime, potentially shaping young minds by presenting criminal activities as acceptable or appealing.
Potential Impact on Investigations and Public Order
The police further noted that such content could hinder ongoing investigations and disrupt public order in the state. The appeal has been made under Section 69A(1) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, along with relevant clauses of the IT (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information by Public) Rules, 2009. Punjab Police have urged that ZEE5 be directed to halt the documentary's release and remove its trailer from access worldwide.
High Court Remarks Cited
The communication also highlights earlier remarks by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which had taken suo motu cognisance of interviews of Lawrence Bishnoi allegedly filmed inside jail premises. The court had stated that such content could incite criminal behaviour and hamper ongoing trials, and had instructed authorities to take down similar material from digital platforms.
Wider Impact of Online Content
Officials noted that online content carries a significantly wider reach and deeper impact due to its audio-visual nature, making it more accessible and persuasive, particularly for impressionable viewers. This move comes at a time of heightened scrutiny around crime-focused content on digital platforms, especially material accused of sensationalizing or glorifying criminals. The Ministry is yet to issue a response to the request.
