The film premiered on July 3 without any edits but was taken down for Indian viewers on July 5. In an official statement, ZEE5 did not specify the exact reason for the removal, saying only that the decision had been made "in view of the current circumstances."
The streaming platform expressed support for the filmmakers and said it hopes the movie can return after the completion of the legal process.
A Film Delayed for More Than Three Years
Originally titled Punjab 95, the film spent more than three years awaiting release due to prolonged censorship issues.
India s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) reportedly demanded more than 125 cuts and modifications before granting approval for a theatrical release. However, the filmmakers refused to accept the extensive changes, preventing the film from reaching cinemas.
Based on the Life of Human Rights Activist Jaswant Singh Khalra
Sutlej is based on the life of renowned human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, portrayed by Diljit Dosanjh. Khalra gained international attention in the late 1980s and 1990s after exposing allegations of fake police encounters, enforced disappearances, and the secret cremation of unidentified bodies in India s Punjab state.
In 1995, Khalra was abducted and later killed. Several police officials were subsequently convicted in connection with his murder.
Filmmakers Criticize Censorship
Director Honey Trehan previously alleged that the CBFC even wanted Jaswant Singh Khalra s name removed from the film, describing the demand as an attack on artistic freedom and freedom of expression.
Diljit Dosanjh had also expressed concern after the film s release, saying he feared it could be removed at any time. Although ZEE5 has not cited any specific legal grounds for taking the film offline, the decision has once again sparked nationwide debate over censorship, creative freedom, and the portrayal of politically sensitive chapters of Punjab s history in Indian cinema.
The controversy has also renewed discussions about the balance between regulatory oversight and artistic expression, with critics arguing that films based on historical events should be evaluated through transparent and consistent standards.
