The anticipated release of “Panjab 95,” a film chronicling the life of slain human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has encountered a roadblock from the Central Board of Film Certification due to fears of public disorder. Set to showcase Khalra’s fight against state atrocities during the 1980s and 1990s, the movie features Diljit Dosanjh, an artist known for challenging Hindutva ideologies. This censorship raises crucial issues surrounding freedom of expression and the responsibility to acknowledge historical truths.
Khalra’s legacy resonates as a symbol of defiance against injustice, representing a collective grievance within a community scarred by state-sanctioned violence during its darkest days. His bravery brought to light the egregious abuses faced by thousands, with the Punjab police implicated in the clandestine killings of up to 25,000 individuals during this turbulent era. Khalra’s courage led to his own tragic abduction and murder, becoming emblematic of the peril of revealing uncomfortable truths.
Despite numerous reports documenting Khalra’s findings and the police’s misdeeds, the blockade of “Panjab 95” signifies a troubling reluctance to confront challenging historical narratives in cinema. Named amidst a slew of films that reflect controversial topics, this film stands out as a poignant, factual portrayal of human rights violations, making its censorship particularly disconcerting. The disparity in treatment between films celebrating government narratives versus those highlighting stark truths illustrates the precariousness of democratic values in contemporary India.
In a recent discussion, Bibi Paramjit Kaur Khalra, Jaswant’s widow, expressed her dismay at the film’s ban, spotlighting the authenticity and established facts presented within. She argued that the narrative aligns with judicial acknowledgements of the injustices faced during the era, asserting the integrity embedded within her husband’s legacy and calling upon viewers to recognise this enduring truth.
Ultimately, the efforts to suppress “Panjab 95” underscore the essential role of storytelling in fostering societal understanding and healing. Acknowledging Khalra’s contributions is imperative not just for historical accuracy but also for reinforcing our pursuit of justice and liberty. His story challenges society to face its past, urging a collective commitment to the principles of democracy and human rights. For now, his legacy reigns strong in the hearts and minds of those yearning for truth and equity.
The film “Panjab 95,” about slain activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been banned by the Central Board of Film Certification. It serves as a narrative against the backdrop of human rights abuses committed in Punjab during the 1980s and 1990s. Despite the film’s factual basis, its suppression raises concerns over freedom of expression in India. Khalra’s legacy as a champion for truth remains pivotal in the ongoing struggle for justice, as echoed by his wife, Bibi Paramjit Kaur Khalra.
The struggles surrounding the release of “Panjab 95” illuminate the tension between state narratives and the quest for truth, raising significant concerns about the limits of free expression in India. Jaswant Singh Khalra’s pursuit of justice remains a symbol of resilience in facing state-controlled violence and oppression. Bibi Paramjit Kaur Khalra’s remarks reinforce the importance of sharing his story, reflecting the need for open dialogues to establish an honest understanding of historical events. Consequently, releasing the film would not only honour his memory but also fortify the ongoing battle for justice and accountability.
Original Source: thewire.in
