Satluj Row: 'CBFC Recommended Cuts, Released On OTT Without Certification Process', Say I&B Officials

New Delhi: Diljit Dosanjh-starrer 'Satluj,' based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, was released on the OTT platform without the required certification process being completed, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) officials said as reported by ANI.. The movie was taken down from streaming platform ZEE5 just two days after its release. The move triggered widespread reactions from celebrities and politicians.As per the officials, the movie did not have the required certification for a theatrical release. As per the officials, the movie did not have the required certification for a theatrical release.It was alsoalleged that the makers of the film changed the film's title and released it on an OTT platform.“Satluj

did not have the required certification for a theatrical release. Instead of complying with the certification process, the makers changed the film's title and released it on an OTT platform on Friday,” an official told the news agency.The official further alleged that the release violated the provisions of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, although no specific provision was identified.The official also stated that the certification body had recommended nearly 100 cuts to the film. Rather than implementing those changes, the makers allegedly changed the film's title and proceeded with its OTT release.As per the report, the said it had not received any representation from the filmmakers seeking approval or reconsideration before the film was released.

Statement By Zee5:

Meanwhile, Zee5 confirmed that the film will remain unavailable in India until further notice. After taking down the movie, the OTT platform also released an official statement. "In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice. We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity," Zee5 had stated.

Diljit Dosanjh's Response:

Hours after the film was taken down, Diljit Dosanjh addressed the issue during a live Instagram interaction on Monday, saying the development was not unexpected."My love and respect to all of you. What I had already expected is exactly what happened. I thought the film might get banned when offices will open on Monday, but I didn't know it would happen as early as Sunday evening," the actor said.Despite the removal, Dosanjh expressed satisfaction that audiences had already watched the film.