Diljit Dosanjh starrer ‘Satluj’, previously titled ‘Punjab ’95’, was pulled from OTT platforms within 48 hours of its release on Friday. In response, stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra wrote an open letter to the CBFC chairman Bashun Joshitook issue with the initial objections raised against the film and its subsequent removal from OTT. The film faced censorship hurdles for more than three years while trying to secure a theatrical release, but ultimately never made it to theaters.
Kunal Kamra questions CBFC’s jurisdiction over OTT
Reacting to the film being removed from the OTT platform, Kamla posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Can you tell us why the film ‘Punjab ’95’ was recommended to be cut 127 times? The same film, now renamed Satluj, was removed from the OTT platform in less than two days.” The CBFC has no jurisdiction over OTT platforms or international releases. Punjab ’95 tells the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra, who exposed documented human rights violations and paid with his life. If a film based on well-documented facts cannot be viewed by Indian audiences, the public should know why. “This sends a very direct message to filmmakers and production companies: if you’re going to honor the greats of minority communities, you have to deal with the CBFC.”
Kunal Kamra slams censor board for double standards
Kamra criticized the censor board’s approach for being inconsistent and urged journalists to ask the authorities “some tough questions” to explain why some politically sensitive films get a smooth pass while others have been delayed for years. He also took aim at the power of censorship boards over filmmakers, questioning what it was like to “enjoy a four-year career as a director.” Journalists should ask tough questions of censor board leaders. Why do some politically insensitive films get by with ease, while others languish in limbo for years? Red carpet for Kashmir Archives, Bengal Archives and more kerala story. “The Rose of Durandal 1 & 2”, a fictional documentary/explainer about the unimaginable and unexplainable. How does it feel to enjoy four years of directing?
Kunal Kamra quotes Jaswant Singh Khalra
He ends his note by comparing the present situation with the past situation legal and democratic norms. He concluded his letter by writing: “In Nehru’s India, this would have been litigated in the courts. If filmmakers cannot tell the stories of those who stood up for justice despite years of hindrance, what kind of films are we encouraging them to make? Jaswant Singh Kalra was kidnapped again, this time by the CBFC.”
About “Satru”
helmsman Dear TrehanSatluj tells the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra, written by Diljit Dosanjhthey began investigating suspected illegal executions and secret cremations in Punjab.
