Union Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu on Monday said his criticism of the movie 'Satluj' was not against any religion but against terrorism and violence. He alleged that the movie presents a one-sided version of Punjab's militancy period. Bittu also supported Paramjit Kaur Khalra's demand for an independent investigation into the killings that took place during those years.
While talking to mediapersons, Bittu said movies based on historical events should present facts in a balanced manner. He questioned several claims made in Satluj, including the figure of 25,000 allegedly missing bodies, and raised concerns over the portrayal of certain historical events and personalities.
He alleged that the movie does not present the complete picture of Punjab's past and instead offers a selective account of the militancy years. According to him, historical facts have been distorted rather than presented fairly.
Referring to his own family's experience, Bittu recalled that his grandfather and former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh was assassinated on August 31, 1995. He also mentioned the disappearance of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra a few days later, saying both families had suffered during that period. He added that the suffering of victims should not be used for political purposes and said he plans to meet Paramjit Kaur Khalra.
Bittu further said between 1992 and 1995, Jaswant Singh Khalra exercised his constitutional rights without any restrictions. He also said no FIR had been registered against Khalra during that period.
Backing Paramjit Kaur Khalra's demand, the Union Minister called for an independent, impartial and time-bound Commission of Inquiry into the killings of innocent civilians, bus passengers, police personnel and others during the militancy years. He said all facts should be examined through a proper legal process so that the truth comes out.
Bittu also urged the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, who is scheduled to perform an ardas on July 14, to pray for everyone who lost their lives during the years of violence in Punjab. He said every victim deserved to be remembered and hoped such violence would never return.
He also said governments and political parties have no control over movies released on OTT platforms. Therefore, he added, it would not be right to hold them responsible for the content of such films.
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