Chandigarh: The controversy surrounding the removal of Satluj from streaming platforms in India continues to draw reactions from the Punjabi film industry. Actress Neeru Bajwa has now spoken out, expressing disappointment over the decision and extending support to actor Diljit Dosanjh and the film's makers.
In a message shared on her Instagram Stories, Neeru said she was unable to watch the film before it was taken down and questioned the reasons behind its removal. She added that the development had left her deeply saddened and disappointed.
The actress also underlined the importance of preserving stories rooted in Punjab's culture and heritage, saying such narratives should be encouraged rather than restricted.
In her statement, Neeru wrote:
"Before I could watch Satluj it was taken off, I can't wrap my head around this! Why? Why was it taken off. This truly makes me feel, things are unfair.
As a proud Punjabi, I feel deeply betrayed and disappointed that Satluj was taken off. Stories that reflect our culture and identity deserve to be seen, not silenced. This decision feels unjust and heartbreaking for our community."
Her remarks have added momentum to the debate that erupted after Satluj became unavailable for viewers in India. Fans and several members of the Punjabi entertainment fraternity have questioned the move, with many calling for the film's restoration.
Diljit Dosanjh, who headlines the project, had earlier reacted to the controversy through social media, suggesting that the film's fate reflected the challenges faced by its central figure, human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra.
Meanwhile, streaming platform ZEE5 has maintained that the film has been temporarily withdrawn from its Indian catalogue and that it is exploring available legal and procedural options regarding its future availability. The platform also reiterated its support for the filmmakers.
Released on July 3, Satluj is based on the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra, whose work exposing alleged human rights violations remains one of the most significant chapters in Punjab's modern history. Along with Diljit Dosanjh, the film features Kanwaljeet Singh, Arjun Rampal and Suvinder Vicky in key roles.
As the debate continues, Neeru Bajwa's statement has further amplified calls from the Punjabi film fraternity for greater space and visibility for stories that reflect the region's history, culture and identity.
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