Shiromani Akali Dal Announces Village-Wide Screenings of Satluj
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has announced plans to screen the film Satluj in every village across Punjab following its removal from the streaming platform ZEE5. The party claims the removal was due to political pressure and has vowed to ensure the film reaches the masses through community screenings.
ZEE5 Removal Sparks Controversy
ZEE5 took down Satluj from its platform on March 27, 2025, citing a request from the Punjab government. The film, directed by Rajiv Sharma, is based on the 2015 sacrilege incidents in Punjab and the subsequent police firing in Kotkapura and Behbal Kalan. The removal has sparked a debate on censorship and freedom of expression, with the SAD accusing the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of suppressing dissent.
Party's Response and Plans
SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal stated, "We will not allow the truth to be buried. The film exposes the dark chapter of sacrilege and police brutality, and the AAP government's attempt to silence it is a betrayal of the people of Punjab." The party has arranged for projectors and screens to be set up in villages, with the first screening scheduled for April 5 in Kotkapura.
Political Implications
The controversy has intensified political rivalry in Punjab, with SAD using the issue to rally support ahead of the 2027 assembly elections. The party has also filed a petition in the Punjab and Haryana High Court challenging the removal, arguing that it violates the right to information and artistic expression.
Film's Content and Context
Satluj depicts the events surrounding the desecration of the Guru Granth Sahib in 2015, which led to widespread protests and a police crackdown that resulted in the deaths of two protesters. The film was released on ZEE5 on March 21 but was pulled within a week. The makers have denied any inaccuracies, stating that the film is based on the Justice Ranjit Singh Commission report.
Impact on Digital Streaming and Censorship
The incident has raised questions about the autonomy of OTT platforms in India. Analysts note that while platforms often self-censor to avoid legal trouble, the removal of Satluj under government pressure could set a precedent. According to a report by the Internet and Mobile Association of India, OTT subscriptions in India grew by 20% in 2024, highlighting the sector's sensitivity to regulatory actions.
Next Steps
SAD plans to screen the film in over 13,000 villages across Punjab over the next two months. The party has also launched a social media campaign with the hashtag #SatlujTruth. Meanwhile, ZEE5 has not commented on the matter beyond its initial statement citing the government request.
