CBFC Halts Release of Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Punjab 95’: Controversy Brews

Actor Diljit Dosanjh’s film, tentatively titled ‘Punjab 95’ and chronicling the era of militancy in 1990s Punjab, is encountering hurdles from the Central Board of Film Certification. The film, which is based on the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra, is reportedly being blocked from release, with the CBFC asking for numerous cuts. Director Honey Trehan and Diljit Dosanjh are strongly against these alterations, considering the film a vital piece of cinema. The makers of the film are calling for the film to be released as it is an epic on the violation of human rights. Dosanjh has stated his belief in using his platform to address important societal issues, and the filmmakers are committed to the film’s original vision. The CBFC demanded a record 127 cuts before giving a censor certificate. The initial title, Ghalughara, meaning Carnage was also requested to be changed. The decision to change the name was made after it was reversed from its international release, outside of India, for unknown reasons.