The controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh’s Satluj could trigger one of the biggest regulatory changes India’s streaming industry has seen in recent years. According to multiple reports, the Central government is examining whether films released directly on OTT platforms should also require certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), similar to movies released in theatres. If implemented, the move would fundamentally change how digital film releases are approved before reaching audiences.
The proposal is still under consideration, and no official notification has been issued so far. However, government sources cited in reports say the discussions gained momentum after questions were raised over the release of Satluj on Zee5 despite the film reportedly not receiving CBFC certification.
Satluj Controversy Sparks Fresh Review
According to an India Today report, the Centre is reviewing whether CBFC approval should become compulsory for every film premiering on streaming platforms. The discussion reportedly follows allegations that Satluj was released on Zee5 without obtaining the certification required for public exhibition. Government sources told the publication that the matter has raised significant legal concerns and prompted authorities to examine existing rules governing digital releases.
The report further states that officials believe releasing and publicly exhibiting a film without the required certification is not legally permissible. According to the sources quoted, responsibility for initiating criminal proceedings over unauthorised public screenings would rest with the respective state governments wherever such screenings have taken place. At present, however, the government has not publicly announced any legal action in connection with the matter.
The report also claims that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), or the Central government, has the authority to direct the removal of an uncertified film from an OTT platform. According to the same report, that mechanism was used after Satluj appeared on Zee5, following which the film was taken down. Reports further suggest that authorities are examining whether any action should be taken against Zee5 over allegations that it streamed an uncertified version of the film, although no official order has been issued at the time of writing.
OTT Rules Could See Major Changes
As part of the ongoing review, the government is also reportedly exploring amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules. If those changes are approved, every film released directly on OTT platforms could be required to obtain CBFC certification before its digital premiere. Such a move would bring streaming releases much closer to the regulatory framework already followed by theatrical films.
The proposal could have a significant impact on filmmakers and streaming platforms alike. At present, films made exclusively for OTT services do not routinely undergo the same certification process required for theatrical releases. Mandatory CBFC approval could introduce additional compliance requirements and potentially affect release schedules for future streaming titles.
Why Satluj Became a Legal Flashpoint
The latest developments stem from the controversy surrounding Satluj, starring Diljit Dosanjh. According to media reports, the film did not complete the CBFC certification process after the Board allegedly recommended more than 100 cuts. Reports claim that the makers chose not to implement those changes, resulting in the film not receiving certification.
Despite the unresolved certification issue, Satluj premiered on Zee5 on July 3 after facing several years of delays. However, the film remained available on the streaming platform for only two days before it was removed. At the time, Zee5 issued a brief statement saying the decision had been taken because of “current circumstances,” without providing any further explanation.
For now, the reported proposal remains under government consideration, and no final decision has been announced. If approved, however, mandatory CBFC certification for OTT films would represent one of the biggest policy shifts for India’s digital entertainment industry, potentially changing how streaming platforms release films in the years ahead.
