Will OTT Films Soon Need CBFC Approval? Here’s Why the Satluj Controversy Has Started a New Debate

For the past few years, many filmmakers have chosen OTT platforms to release their films directly without a theatrical release. Unlike cinema releases, these films do not need a certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) before streaming.

That may change soon.

According to recent reports, the Central Government is considering making CBFC certification compulsory for films that release directly on OTT platforms. The discussion began after Satluj, starring Diljit Dosanjh, was released on Zee5 earlier this month and was later removed from the platform.

What started the discussion?

Satluj is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. The film was originally announced as Punjab ’95 and had been submitted to the CBFC several years ago. Reports stated that the film did not receive clearance in its original form after the board suggested several changes.

On July 3, the film was released on Zee5 under the title Satluj. According to media reports, the version released on the platform did not have CBFC certification. Two days later, the film was taken down.

Following the incident, reports suggest that the government is now looking at whether films releasing directly on OTT should also go through the CBFC certification process, similar to theatrical releases.

What could change?

If the proposal is approved, every film made for a direct OTT release may have to receive a CBFC certificate before streaming.

Reports also suggest that the government is studying possible changes to the Information Technology Rules that currently regulate digital platforms. However, no official notification has been issued so far.

There are also reports that authorities are examining whether action should be taken against Zee5 for streaming an uncertified version of Satluj. No official decision has been announced.

This isn’t the first OTT title to face issues

Over the years, several OTT releases have run into legal or public controversies after release.

In 2021, Amazon Prime Video’s Tandav was criticised over some scenes. The makers later edited parts of the series and added disclaimers.

In 2024, Netflix’s IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack also sparked a debate over the names used for the hijackers. Following discussions with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the platform updated the series with additional disclaimers.

Now, Satluj has started another conversation, this time about whether OTT films should follow the same certification process as theatrical releases.

Why does this matter?

If CBFC certification is made mandatory for OTT films, it may change the working of digital releases in India. Filmmakers who have been releasing movies directly to streaming platforms may have to endure the same certification process that theatrical releases do.

For now, the proposal is still under discussion, and the government has not made any official announcement. But if implemented, it could become one of the biggest policy changes for India’s OTT industry.