Diljit Dosanjh’s highly anticipated film Punjab 95 has hit a major roadblock with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Initially titled Ghallughara, this film tells the story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who famously exposed the illegal cremations carried out by the Punjab Police in the 1990s. However, due to the film’s sensitive subject matter, the censor board has asked for extensive changes, turning what was once 85 cuts into a staggering 120.
The Name That Caused a Stir
One of the key objections raised by the CBFC is the title Punjab 95, which directly refers to the year Jaswant Singh Khalra disappeared. The censor board believes that this title might offend some sections of the audience, as 1995 was a particularly sensitive year in Punjab’s history, marked by unrest and violence. The board has reportedly requested the filmmakers to change the title yet again, following its previous alteration from Ghallughara to Punjab 95.
In addition to this, references to Tarn Taran Sahib, a district in Punjab, and mentions of Canada and the UK have also been flagged for removal. These changes are likely to ensure that the film doesn’t provoke any unintended reactions from the public.
Character Name and Gurbani Scene Also Questioned
The CBFC has also raised concerns about the name of the lead character. Jaswant Singh Khalra is a well-known figure in Punjab’s history, and the board believes that using his real name could spark controversy. There have been instructions to change the name of the character in the film to avoid any issues.
Moreover, the film includes a scene featuring Gurbani (holy Sikh scripture), which has also been met with objections. The censor board is cautious about how religious content is portrayed on screen, fearing that any misrepresentation could lead to backlash.
Filmmakers Resist the Cuts
The filmmakers, led by producer Ronnie Screwvala and director Honey Trehan, are reportedly unhappy with the demands made by the censor board. They argue that removing Khalra’s name from a story based on his life is unjust, as it dilutes the very essence of the narrative. The makers had earlier sought reconsideration of the 85 cuts, citing their right to freedom of expression. However, when the revised committee reviewed the film, it added 35 more cuts, pushing the total to 120.
Why the Film Faces So Many Changes
Punjab 95 touches on a particularly sensitive chapter in Punjab’s history—the period of insurgency in the state. During this time, human rights violations were rampant, and Khalra’s investigations exposed shocking truths about the role of the police in illegally cremating bodies. His efforts led to significant revelations, including the discovery that over 2,000 people had been cremated in Tarn Taran district alone without proper identification.
The CBFC’s concerns are rooted in the fear that presenting this narrative without sufficient modifications might reignite old tensions in the state. As a result, the board has decided to take a cautious approach, ensuring that nothing in the film could potentially offend any community.
The Life of Jaswant Singh Khalra: A Brave Voice for Justice
Jaswant Singh Khalra was a prominent figure in the fight for human rights during Punjab’s insurgency period. As a bank director in Amritsar, Khalra began investigating suspicious activities by the Punjab Police. His findings revealed the illegal cremation of thousands of unidentified bodies. These discoveries shocked the nation and led to investigations by the CBI and acknowledgment by both the Supreme Court and the National Human Rights Commission.
However, his activism came at a great cost. In 1995, Jaswant Singh Khalra disappeared under mysterious circumstances. His body was later discovered, sparking further outrage and an investigation. Six Punjab Police officers were eventually convicted for his kidnapping and murder, receiving seven-year prison sentences.
What Lies Ahead for ‘Punjab 95’?
As of now, it remains uncertain whether the filmmakers will comply with the 120 cuts demanded by the CBFC or continue to fight for a more lenient review. The film’s release has already been delayed several times, and these new objections are likely to cause further delays. Diljit Dosanjh, who portrays Khalra in the film, has remained silent on the issue so far, but fans are eagerly waiting to see how this chapter of Punjab’s history is portrayed on screen.
