HC verdict on banning 3 Indian channels Jan 29

The High Court today fixed January 29 for delivering verdict on a writ petition seeking its directive on the government to stop telecast of three Indian television channels-- Star Jalsha, Star Plus and Zee Bangla-- in Bangladesh.

The bench of Justice Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury and Justice JBM Hassan set the date after concluding final hearing on the petition. 

Syeda Shahin Ara Laily, a Supreme Court lawyer, 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 the students and regular activities of housewives are being hampered due to watching the channel's programmes by them, she mentioned in the petition.

The petitioner also said being influenced by drama serial "Bojhena Se Bojhena" aired by Star Jalsha, three Bangladeshi girls have 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, said the petitioner.

Advocate Aklas Uddin Bhuiyan argued for the petitioner, while Attorney General Mahbubey Alam opposed the petition.