Satluj: Uncovering Punjab's Dark Secret of Secret Cremations

In 1995, bank director Jaswant Singh of Amritsar began an investigation after his friend's mother disappeared, unearthing a shocking truth about alleged extrajudicial killings by the Punjab Police. His probe into crematorium records revealed more than 2,000 unidentified bodies secretly cremated, indicating a systemic abuse of power.

Despite warnings and institutional stonewalling, Jaswant pursued justice, bringing the police atrocities to light. The film, inspired by these true events, depicts the protagonist's courageous fight against a ruthless system, facing severe repercussions for his actions.

Director Honey Trehan handles the sensitive subject with straightforward direction and gripping screenplay, punctuated by sharp dialogues. The narrative effectively conveys the scale of the crimes, making the film relevant even decades later.

Performances are a major strength, with Diljit Dosanjh portraying Jaswant Singh with sincerity. Suvinder Vicky and Arjun Rampal also deliver strong acts, intensifying the film's menacing atmosphere and impactful climax.

While praised for its sensitivity and performances, the film's 163-minute runtime is considered excessive, and some narrative questions remain unanswered. The decision for a direct OTT release without adequate promotion has also drawn criticism, though word-of-mouth is expected to drive viewership.