The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has directed a three-member review committee to examine the circumstances surrounding the removal of Punjabi film ‘Satluj’ from an OTT platform, following an appeal by Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon, the party said on Monday.
Dhillon had approached the Central Government on July 6, seeking a review of the decision to remove the film from the streaming platform.
Acting on his request, the ministry has now initiated a review process through a designated committee, according to BJP Punjab.
Welcoming the Centre’s decision, Dhillon said Punjabi cinema represents the voice, history and cultural identity of the state and that concerns raised by artists and viewers regarding the removal of ‘Satluj’ needed to be examined fairly.
“Punjabi cinema and its artists represent the voice, history and cultural identity of our people. When serious concerns were raised by the film fraternity and the public over the manner in which ‘Satluj’ was removed from OTT, I considered it my responsibility to bring the matter before the Government of India,” Dhillon said.
He added, “I welcome the prompt decision of the Central Government to refer the matter to a review committee. Legal procedures, transparency and respect for Punjab’s cultural and creative expression must move together. I am confident that the committee will conduct a detailed and impartial review, and I will continue to stand firmly with Punjab’s artists and people on this issue.”
Dhillon further stated that the rule of law must remain supreme, while genuine concerns of the Punjabi film industry and the public should also be addressed through an objective and transparent process.
He said the Punjab BJP would continue engaging with all stakeholders to ensure an early, balanced and fair resolution of the matter.
The removal of ‘Satluj’ from the OTT platform had triggered a political debate in Punjab, with different groups raising questions over the reasons behind the decision. The review committee’s findings are expected to determine the next course of action.