Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj has criticised the reported decision to stop the screening of the film 'Satluj', based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, in India. Describing the move as an attempt to suppress freedom of expression, the Jathedar said the truth should not be prevented from reaching the public.
'Truth cannot be suppressed'
In a press statement issued on Monday, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj said that at a time when freedom of expression and the protection of human rights are widely recognised across the world, preventing a film based on the experiences of the Sikh community from being screened is unfair and against democratic values.
He said the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra highlights alleged human rights violations during the 1990s and reflects the efforts made to document cases related to alleged fake encounters and disappearances in Punjab. According to the Jathedar, truth cannot remain hidden forever and eventually comes before the people.
Calls for equal treatment
The Akal Takht Jathedar also questioned why films based on the suffering of other communities are allowed to be released while, according to him, a film highlighting the experiences of Sikhs is facing restrictions. He said such an approach sends the wrong message and hurts the sentiments of the Sikh community.
He urged the government to allow the screening of Satluj, saying people should be free to understand historical events and form their own opinions. He added that attempting to suppress such stories would only generate more discussion around them.
Refers to court cases
Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj also referred to cases related to alleged fake encounters, stating that, according to him, several Punjab Police officials have been convicted by courts in such matters over the years. He said these developments underline the need to acknowledge historical events and ensure justice for those affected.
He further urged the government to adopt what he described as a sincere approach towards addressing issues linked to the period following June 1984. According to the Jathedar, providing justice to affected families would help heal long-standing wounds within the Sikh community.
The statement comes amid discussions surrounding the release of Satluj, a film based on the life and work of Jaswant Singh Khalra, whose efforts to document alleged human rights violations in Punjab remain a significant part of the state's contemporary history.
