Punjab Demands Ban on ‘Lawrence of Punjab’ Docu-Series, Writes to I&B Ministry
Zinnia Balli / Babushahi Network
Chandigarh, April 22, 2026:
Punjab Police has formally sought a ban on the upcoming OTT documentary series “Lawrence of Punjab”, citing serious concerns over its potential to glorify crime and disturb public order in the state.
In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Special DGP (Cyber Crime) V. Neeraja urged the Centre to block the release of the series on ZEE5, scheduled for April 27. The letter invokes provisions under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, requesting immediate intervention.
According to the communication, the documentary portrays the life and criminal trajectory of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and includes references to high-profile crimes, including the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala. Authorities fear that the dramatized content and real-life footage could glamorize organised crime.
Punjab Police has flagged multiple risks associated with the release, including the possibility of influencing youth, undermining ongoing law enforcement efforts, and triggering law and order issues. The letter notes that gangster-related content is particularly sensitive in Punjab and could lead to heightened tensions.
The state has also cited previous directions of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which had taken a strict view on content promoting criminal activities. The court had earlier ordered the removal of interviews and online material linked to Lawrence Bishnoi, emphasizing that such content could impact trials and influence witnesses.
Reiterating these concerns, Punjab Police has requested the Centre to direct OTT platform ZEE5 to refrain from streaming the documentary and to block access to its trailer globally.
The move comes amid growing debate over the portrayal of gangsters in media and its impact on society, especially the youth.
Read full letter below, click link:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nNvbmrKSJKJuLtNyBmwPoxfELdlqkJ1T/view?usp=sharing