Chandigarh, 22 January 2025: The international release of Diljit Dosanjh’s Punjab ’95, a biographical film on slain human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been delayed once more.
Just two days ago, Dosanjh announced the film’s global premiere was scheduled for February 7.
On Monday evening, Dosanjh posted on social media that the release had been halted due to unforeseen circumstances.
“We are sorry and it pains us to inform you that Punjab ’95 will not be released on February 7 due to circumstances beyond our control,” he shared on Instagram, addressing his fans.
This marks yet another setback for the film, which first encountered obstacles in 2023.
Initially announced to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, it was later removed from the festival lineup after objections from India’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
The censor board reportedly flagged the movie’s title and content, demanding changes.
Originally titled Ghallughara, the film explores Khalra’s efforts to expose alleged fake police encounters targeting Sikh youths during Punjab’s militancy period.
Jaswant Singh Khalra vanished in 1995, and a decade later, four police officers were arrested for his abduction and murder.
In 2007, the Punjab and Haryana High Court extended their original seven-year sentences to life imprisonment.
Despite the controversies, fans continue to await the release of the film, which sheds light on Khalra’s fight for justice and the hardships he endured.
Read More: Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Punjab 95’ Set for February 7 Release
