The BJP’s attempt to distance itself from controversy surrounding the film Satluj faces growing internal pressure. Sikh leaders within the party have voiced discomfort with Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu’s criticism of the movie as presenting a one-sided account of militancy. Senior BJP figure and former IPS officer Iqbal Singh Lalpura responded by urging restraint, stating that individuals should stay within appropriate boundaries. For the BJP, securing Sikh backing remains difficult due to its strained ties with the former ally Akali Dal and lingering resentment over farm legislation. Party Sikh members worry that Bittu’s opposition to the Diljit Dosanjh film, which depicts the story of activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, could further alienate the community. Leaders consulted by The Indian Express stressed that no deaths of civilians could be justified, whether by militants or through alleged police encounters, and rejected claims that the film would heighten Sikh-Hindu tensions. The official party stance, outlined by state president Kewal Singh Dhillon, backs Punjab’s film industry and artists while welcoming the Centre’s referral of the issue to a review committee. Supreme Court advocate and BJP member Harvinder Singh Phoolka endorsed screening the film so younger generations grasp the militancy period and advised Bittu against unnecessary disputes. He noted that innocent deaths must be remembered regardless of faith and the perpetrators held accountable. Lalpura called for measured responses and suggested Bittu consult NHRC data on reported killings rather than escalate the matter. He emphasized that both perspectives on militancy origins deserve attention and affirmed the party’s commitment to Punjab and its people. Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Sahney described the film as an artistic take on specific events that should not reopen divisions, noting Khalra’s legal approach and resulting convictions. Punjab BJP vice-president Fateh Jung Bajwa, whose family endured losses during militancy, said fears of communal discord were misplaced as harmony had endured. Bittu acknowledged Lalpura’s seniority and clarified his main concern involved his grandfather’s legacy.
