Dhaka, Bangladesh, December 3, 2024 – A petition has been filed in the Bangladesh High Court seeking to ban the broadcast of Indian TV channels, including popular networks such as Star Jalsha, Zee Bangla, and Star Plus. The petition, filed by lawyer Ekhlas Uddin Bhuiyan, argues that the content broadcast by these Indian channels is detrimental to the cultural values and social fabric of Bangladesh. The petitioner claims that the channels air provocative material that clashes with Bangladesh’s cultural traditions and societal norms.
The petition also highlights concerns about the growing influence of Indian media on Bangladeshi society. In the context of rising social tensions and incidents of violence, particularly against religious minorities, the petitioner believes that Indian media channels have contributed to exacerbating these issues. The petition calls for a review under the Cable Television Network Operation Act of 2006, seeking a legal framework for banning such broadcasts.
In addition, the legal action points to the negative impact of Indian TV programming on the Bangladeshi audience. It is argued that the continued airing of Indian content has led to the erosion of the local media industry, with Bangladeshi television channels losing viewership to Indian broadcasts. This has sparked a debate on the cultural identity of the country, with many advocating for a greater emphasis on local content.
The Bangladesh High Court is expected to hear the petition soon and will examine whether the broadcast of Indian channels should be restricted. The outcome of the case could set a precedent for future media regulation in Bangladesh, especially in terms of foreign media influence on local culture and society.
