A writ petition has been raised in the Bangladesh High Court seeking a ban on the broadcast of Indian TV channels, citing concerns about their impact on Bangladeshi culture and society. The petition, filed by lawyer Ekhlas Uddin Bhuiyan on Monday, invokes the Cable Television Network Operation Act 2006 to demand the prohibition of Indian TV channels, according to the Dhaka Tribune.
The application requests the court to issue a rule instructing a ban on these channels. A hearing is expected to take place in the High Court bench comprising Justice Fatema Najib and Justice Sikder Mahmudur Razi.
Respondents in the petition include the secretaries of the Information and Home Ministries, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), and other relevant authorities. Channels like Star Jalsha, Star Plus, Zee Bangla, Republic Bangla, and others have been specifically mentioned.
The petition accuses Indian channels of airing provocative news and unregulated content that allegedly opposes Bangladeshi cultural values, adversely affecting the youth. Furthermore, it alleges that these channels operate without adhering to any regulatory norms.
The petition comes amidst increasing violence and tensions in Bangladesh, particularly targeting minority communities. Attacks on Hindu temples and other minority establishments have surged, sparking calls for enhanced protection.
One notable incident occurred on October 25 when former priest Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested in Chittagong for alleged sedition and reportedly hoisting a saffron flag above Bangladesh’s national flag. Following his arrest, violent clashes erupted, including one on November 27 at the Chattogram Court Building, where a lawyer was killed during a confrontation between police and alleged followers of Das.
India has raised concerns over the situation in Bangladesh. During a recent media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the issue, stating, “We are concerned about the surge of extremist rhetoric, and increasing incidents of violence and provocation. These developments cannot be dismissed only as media exaggerations. We once again call upon Bangladesh to take all steps for the protection of minorities and safeguarding their interests.”
The developments have intensified the scrutiny on cross-border cultural and social influences, with growing calls in Bangladesh to prioritise national cultural preservation.