Zee5 Removes Film 'Punjab 95' in India After 48 Hours, Citing Unspecified Developments
Streaming platform Zee5 removed the film 'Punjab 95' (also known as 'Satluj') in India within 48 hours of its release, citing "current developments." Reports suggest the move was mandated by Indian ministries under IT rules.
The film 'Punjab 95', also titled 'Satluj' on the streaming platform, has been removed from Zee5 in India less than two days after its over-the-top (OTT) premiere. The platform cited "current developments" as the reason for the removal without providing further explanation.
However, reports from Indian news outlets, including Hindustan Times and Indian Express, indicate that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) issued a takedown notice to Zee5 under Section 69A and Part-3 of the IT Rules. An unnamed official reportedly stated the film was under examination by an inter-departmental committee.
'Punjab 95' is a biographical drama focused on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who investigated extrajudicial killings and illegal mass cremations by the Punjab Police during the 1980s and 1990s insurgency. Khalra's investigation reportedly led to his own abduction and murder, a case later confirmed by a CBI probe and a Supreme Court conviction of police officials. The film had previously faced over 100 proposed cuts from the Indian censor board.
While the film remains accessible to viewers outside India, its abrupt removal within the country has sparked debate about censorship on Indian OTT platforms. Critics argue that such unexplained takedowns, particularly when allegedly mandated by government bodies, stifle artistic expression and limit audience access to relevant narratives. The incident follows a pattern of content being removed or facing scrutiny on Indian digital platforms, sometimes leading to what is termed the 'Streisand effect,' where censorship attempts amplify public attention.