Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj condemns ‘Satluj’ Ban, urges Centre to allow film’s release
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 7, 2026: Sri Akal Takht Sahib Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj has strongly condemned the ban on the Punjabi film Satluj, based on the life of Shaheed Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra, describing it as an attempt to suppress the truth and curb freedom of expression.
In a statement, the Jathedar urged the Central Government to revoke the ban and allow the film to be released, saying the truth about alleged human rights violations and fake police encounters in Punjab cannot be silenced.
Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj said the life and sacrifice of Shaheed Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra, who exposed cases of alleged illegal cremations and human rights abuses in Punjab, are a part of history and should be presented before the public without restrictions.
He asserted that attempts to suppress historical facts or prevent people from learning about such events are against democratic values and freedom of expression.
The Jathedar appealed to the Centre to permit the release of Satluj, saying that truth cannot be buried through bans and that the public has the right to know the historical realities portrayed in the film.