Punjab Police has urged the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to ban the OTT release of the documentary ‘Lawrence Punjab’, citing concerns that it glorifies crime and influences youth. They cited the legal provisions and asked ZEE5 to remove the trailer globally; The center’s response is awaited amid increasing scrutiny of the content.
The Punjab Police has approached the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), seeking a ban on public access to the upcoming documentary series ‘Lawrence of Punjab’, which is scheduled to premiere on the OTT platform on April 27.
Punjab Police raises concerns over content of ‘Lawrence Punjab’ movie.
According to ANI, in an official letter, Special Director General of Police (Cyber Crime) V.K. Neeraja has raised concerns from the state police over the documentary, which is said to explore the life and criminal rise of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. The series is said to present dramatic scenes along with realistic references to high-profile crimes, including the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala and other violent incidents.
Punjab Police warns that the film “Lawrence of Punjab” may glorify crime
According to the letter, officials fear the documentary may “glorify and belittle organized crime,” which could shape the minds of young people by presenting criminal activities as acceptable or attractive.
The police also noted that such content could hamper ongoing investigations and disrupt public order in the state.
Punjab Police calls for legal rulings against “Lawrence Punjab”
The appeal has been filed under Section 69A(1) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, along with relevant provisions of the Information Technology (Procedures and Safeguards to Prevent Public Access to Information) Rules, 2009. It has urged the Punjab Police to direct ZEE5 to stop the release of the documentary and remove its trailer from worldwide access.
Punjab Police cites Supreme Court statements regarding “Lawrence Punjab”
The letter also highlights the earlier observations made by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which had taken suo motu cognizance of the interviews conducted with Lawrence Bishnoi, which were allegedly filmed inside the prison premises. The court stated that such content could incite criminal behavior and hinder ongoing trials, and ordered the authorities to remove similar materials from digital platforms.
Punjab Police highlights the impact of the content of the film “Lawrence Punjab”.
Officials noted that online content carries a much broader reach and deeper impact due to its audiovisual nature, making it more accessible and persuasive, especially for impressionable viewers. The move comes at a time of increasing scrutiny around crime-focused content on digital platforms, especially material accused of provoking or glorifying criminals. The Ministry has not yet issued any response to the request.