Appeal filed seeking stay on HC order allowing three Indian channels

An appeal has been filed with the Supreme Court challenging a High Court verdict that cleared the way for the authorities concerned to continue running telecast of three Indian channels -- Star Jalsha, Star Plus and Zee Bangla in Bangladesh.

Syeda Shahin Ara Laily, a SC lawyer, submitted the appeal to the Appellate Division of the SC on Sunday afternoon, seeking stay on the HC verdict.

Chamber judge of the apex court might hold hearing on the appeal tomorrow, Laily's lawyer Advocate Aklas Uddin Bhuiyn said.

The HC on January 29 rejected a writ petition filed by Laily seeking its directive on the government to stop the three Indian television channels in Bangladesh.

He submitted the petition to the HC in September 2014, saying that programmes broadcast by the three channels left adverse impact on social and cultural life of Bangladeshi people.

Education of students and regular activities of housewives are being hampered due to watching the channels' programmes, she mentioned in the petition.

The petitioner also said being influenced by drama serial "Bojhena Se Bojhena" aired on Star Jalsha, three Bangladeshi girls had reportedly committed suicide for not getting "Pakhi" dress used in the serial.

On the other hand, Bangladeshi television channels are not allowed to broadcast in India, she added.