Amritsar: In a powerful statement on social media platform X, Giani Harpreet Singh, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (breakaway faction), has called for the immediate release of the much-anticipated biopic of Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra, a revered figure in the Sikh community and a staunch human rights activist. His appeal comes on the occasion of the martyrdom day of Khalra, who is remembered for his courageous work in exposing human rights abuses during the 1980s and 1990s in Punjab.
“Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra is a great warrior of the Sikh community and human rights who sacrificed his life for justice and truth,” said Giani Harpreet Singh in his post. “Today, on his martyrdom day, we demand that a film based on his life, starring Diljit Dosanjh as the protagonist, be released immediately.”
The biopic, which has been the subject of intense discussion and anticipation, is set to portray the life and legacy of Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra, who was abducted by the Punjab Police in 1995 for his efforts to expose the extrajudicial killings and forced disappearances of thousands of Sikhs during that period. His relentless pursuit of justice has made him a martyr in the eyes of many, and his story continues to inspire human rights activists across the world.
Diljit Dosanjh, a prominent actor and singer, has been cast in the lead role of the film, which is expected to offer a powerful narrative about Khalra’s life and the challenges he faced while standing up to the state authorities.
Giani Harpreet Singh’s demand for the film’s immediate release comes in the context of ongoing discussions around censorship and delays in the film’s release in India. There have been reports that the movie has faced resistance from certain quarters, including demands for several cuts before it can be screened. However, supporters of the film have emphasized its importance in shedding light on the struggles of the Sikh community and the long-standing issue of human rights violations in Punjab.
The call for the film’s release has been echoed by many who view it as a necessary step in ensuring that the sacrifices of Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra and others who fought for truth are not forgotten. The biopic is seen as an opportunity to educate the younger generation about the history of Punjab and the profound impact of Khalra’s activism on the global human rights movement.
As the demand for the film grows, there is renewed hope among activists and supporters that the film will eventually be released to honor Khalra’s memory and legacy, ensuring that his story continues to inspire future generations.
