HC verdict on continuing 3 Indian channels challenged

An appeal has been filed with the Supreme Court challenging a High Court verdict that cleared the way for authorities concerned to continue running telecast of three Indian TV channels in Bangladesh.

Read more: HC paves way for 3 Indian channels

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

Chamber judge of SC might hold hearing on the appeal on Wednesday, Laily’s lawyer Advocate Aklas Uddin Bhuiyan told The Daily Star today.

Earlier, the HC on January 29 rejected a writ petition filed by Laily seeking its directive on the government to stop telecasting the three Indian television channels -- Star Jalsha, Star Plus and Zee Bangla -- in Bangladesh.

She submitted the petition to the HC in September 2014, saying that programmes broadcasted 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 by 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 be broadcast in India, she added.