India Considers Mandatory OTT Film Certification After 'Satluj' Ban

The Government of India is considering an amendment to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, to mandate Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) clearance for all films released on OTT platforms. This proposed change would replace the existing self-classification system with a compulsory pre-certification model similar to that used for theatrical releases.

The regulatory shift follows the July 3 release of the film Satluj on the ZEE5 streaming service. Directed by Honey Trehan and starring Diljit Dosanjh, the film depicts human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. The government ordered the film's removal two days after its release using emergency powers under Section 69A of the IT Act, citing national security and public safety concerns. A government committee later recommended that the ban remain in place, alleging the content contradicts India's sovereignty and integrity.

Officials are now examining punitive action against ZEE5 for screening the uncensored content. The CBFC had previously requested 127 cuts to the film in 2022, though ZEE5 claimed it was unaware of these concerns. This tension coincides with upcoming Assembly elections in Punjab, where the film's story is set and where unauthorized public screenings are reportedly continuing in gurdwaras and other venues.