Diljit Dosanjh’s biopic Punjab '95, which tells the story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, is still stuck in the editing phase, as the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has reportedly requested further modifications. The number of cuts demanded has now increased from 85 to 120, according to recent reports.
The CBFC, led by chairman Prasoon Joshi, has also suggested a title change for the film, proposing Sutlej instead of Punjab '95. The board’s Revising Committee has instructed the filmmakers to alter the protagonist's name from Jaswant Singh, which the makers have opposed. A source revealed, "The filmmakers argued that Jaswant Singh Khalra’s name is central to the story, and removing it would make the film lose its identity as a biopic."
In addition to these demands, the CBFC has asked for the removal of references to Gurbani, mentions of Punjab, Tarn Taran, and international links to Canada and the UK. The national flag’s display in certain scenes is also set to be removed.
The movie has been embroiled in controversy since it was first screened for the CBFC in 2022. Despite ongoing negotiations, the filmmakers continue to resist certain modifications, particularly those altering factual references based on real-life events and court judgments from the 1990s. If the cuts are accepted, the film could finally receive certification by the end of this week.
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