Debates around film censorship are back. The film at the centre of a controversy is the Bollywood crime thriller Udta Punjab. Starring Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor in lead roles, this June 17 release was reportedly denied certification last month on grounds that it features expletives, and depicts substance abuse in the State of Punjab.

A fresh controversy was stoked today following a news report by a national TV channel that a committee constituted to make recommendations about the film's censorship has made sweeping recommendations. Going to the extremes, the committee has reportedly said that the word 'Punjab' must be removed from the title and the film be set in a fictional land.

The genesis of the controversy is reportedly in the State's politics involving the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal on the one hand, and the Congress and the Aam Admi Party on the other. The government has been facing flak for failing to handle the drug abuse problem in Punjab, which as per some surveys faces a humongous drug addiction problem. The crime thriller in question is set in this backdrop. Directed by Abhishek Chaubey, the film has Alia Bhatt in an important role.

The panel in question was reportedly presided over by the CBFC chief Pahlaj Nihalani.