The controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh’s film Satluj has sparked fresh debate over digital content regulation in India. According to recent media reports, the Indian government is considering making Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) approval mandatory for movies released directly on OTT platforms.
While the development has attracted widespread attention, no official policy change has been announced by the government so far.
Government Reportedly Considering New OTT Rules
According to media reports, the proposed move comes after Satluj premiered on Zee5 earlier this month without a CBFC certificate.
If the proposal is approved, all films released exclusively on streaming services may have to obtain CBFC certification before becoming available to viewers. The reported changes would bring OTT releases closer to the same regulatory framework currently followed by theatrical releases.
At present, the government has not officially confirmed whether these amendments will be implemented.
Zee5 May Also Face Scrutiny
The report further claims that authorities are examining whether action should be taken against Zee5 for allegedly streaming an uncertified version of the film.
According to the publication, government sources believe that publicly screening a film without the required certification may not comply with existing legal requirements. The report also states that authorities have the power to direct digital platforms to remove uncertified content when necessary.
However, no official action against Zee5 has been announced, and the matter remains under review.
Why Is the Satluj Film in the Spotlight?
The controversy centers on Satluj, a film inspired by the life of renowned human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra.
The project was originally developed under the title Punjab ’95 and had reportedly been submitted to the CBFC several years ago. According to reports, the film did not receive certification in its original form.
Nearly two years later, it was released on Zee5 under the new title Satluj on July 3. Reports claim the version streamed online did not have CBFC certification. The film was later removed from the platform within two days.
What the Proposed Policy Could Mean
If the reported proposal becomes law, filmmakers planning direct OTT releases would need to secure CBFC certification before launching their projects on streaming platforms.
Media reports also suggest the government is exploring possible amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules to introduce this requirement.
Supporters believe such a step could create a uniform certification process for both cinemas and OTT platforms, while critics argue it may affect creative freedom and delay digital releases.
Official Confirmation Still Awaited
Although the reports have generated significant discussion across the entertainment industry, the government has not officially confirmed any new OTT certification policy.
For now, the reported proposal and any possible action regarding Satluj or Zee5 should be treated as unconfirmed until an official statement is issued.
The controversy continues to fuel conversations about OTT regulations, digital streaming laws, CBFC certification, Bollywood releases, and content governance, making it one of the most closely watched developments in India’s entertainment sector. The source of this news is From Bollywood Hungama.