A new web series on ZEE5 has run into trouble even before its release, opening up a wider question about how real-life crime is shown on screen.

Lawrence of Punjab, a show inspired by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, is now facing a legal challenge in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. 

The petition has been filed by Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, who wants the release stopped.

The series is due on 27 April. But first, there is a hearing on 24 April, where the makers will have to respond.

In his complaint, Amarinder says the show could present a distorted version of a criminal life. He argues that such portrayal may influence young viewers. 

Before going to court, he also addressed the platform directly in a letter.

“I am constrained to submit the present complaint raising serious legal and constitutional concerns…” he wrote, pointing to the risks of showing a “notorious gangster” with ongoing criminal cases.

He added that the show appears to be “glorifying a criminal and a gangster”.

The title itself is a nod to Lawrence of Arabia, but the story follows a much darker path. 

Bishnoi became widely known after alleged threats involving Bollywood actor Salman Khan, linked to an old wildlife case.

The case also raises a bigger issue. The petition questions why OTT platforms do not require pre-certification, unlike films, and calls for stricter rules.