Honey Trehan's upcoming film Punjab '95 revolves around the slain human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. Khalra, known for uncovering evidence of the killings of approximately 25,000 Punjabi youth, accused the Punjab police of carrying out these murders. His abduction under mysterious circumstances on September 6, 1995, marked the end of his life, with suspicions pointing once again to the Punjab police. With such a poignant subject matter, Punjab '95 was expected to stir controversy — and it seems to be living up to that expectation with its issues surrounding Censor Board certification. Diljit Dosanjh's Punjab '95 Removed From Toronto International Film Festival Line-up.

According to a report in Mid-Day, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has demanded approximately 85 cuts to the film after its screening by the examining committee. The film stars Diljit Dosanjh in the lead role as Khalra. What's noteworthy is that this isn't the first time Punjab '95 has faced trouble with the CBFC; in December 2022, the board had requested 21 cuts initially, a number that has now escalated significantly.

Even if the filmmakers agree to the 85 cuts, Punjab '95 may still encounter hurdles before its release. The report cites a source stating, "Despite agreeing to the suggested 85 cuts, the filmmakers were cautioned that the film remains contentious, and the question of whether it should be released in the current climate persists. The CBFC has yet to make a final decision."

When Punjab '95 Was Selected For TIFF (And Was Later Pulled Out)

The source further elaborated, "The CBFC is hesitant to approve the film due to its sensitive subject matter. There are concerns that it portrays law enforcement in a negative light by depicting Khalra's custodial death, potentially inciting violence across the country. Significant revisions would be necessary for its release."

As of now, there has been no update on the film's official release date. Punjab '95 is produced by Ronnie Screwvala's RSVP Movies.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 17, 2024 12:44 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).