Ban on Indian TV channels sought in High Court

A writ petition was filed in the High Court seeking a ban on the broadcast of Indian TV channels in the country, citing growing concerns over the impact of Indian media on Bangladeshi culture and society.

Lawyer Ekhlas Uddin Bhuiyan, who filed the petition on Monday, is seeking a directive under the Cable Television Network Operation Act 2006 to prohibit the broadcast of Indian TV channels.

The writ also asks why a rule should not be issued instructing a ban on Indian TV channels in Bangladesh.

The hearing on the application may take place in the High Court bench comprising Justice Fatema Najib and Justice Sikder Mahmudur Razi.

The secretaries of the Information Ministry and the Home Ministry, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), and others are named as respondents in the petition.

The writ calls for a ban on channels like Star Jalsha, Star Plus, Zee Bangla, Republic Bangla, and all other Indian TV channels. It alleges that provocative news is being aired on Indian channels and that unregulated broadcasts of content opposing Bangladeshi culture are leading to the destruction of the youth.

Further, it alleges that these channels operate without adhering to any regulations.