DHAKA: — The Bangladesh government on Monday ordered an indefinite suspension of all broadcasts, promotions and event coverage of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the country, saying the move was taken “in the public interest.
According to the official statement, the suspension — which covers television telecasts, online streaming, promotions and related event coverage — came into effect on 5 January and will remain in force until further notice.
The decision follows widespread public anger in Bangladesh after the removal of national fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad, a development that prompted strong political and public reactions in Dhaka. Government sources and multiple media reports linked the ban directly to the controversy surrounding Mustafizur’s exit.
Officials described the measure as necessary to protect national sentiment and to respond to what they termed unfair treatment of a Bangladeshi player in a major foreign sporting league. The ministry’s directive orders broadcasters and digital platforms to halt all IPL-related content immediately and warned that the restriction will remain until new instructions are issued.
Broadcasters in Bangladesh have aired the IPL since the tournament’s inception in 2008, and the government’s move marks an unprecedented intervention in the telecast of an international league within the country. Analysts say the ban may have diplomatic and commercial repercussions and could complicate cricketing ties between Bangladesh and India if the dispute is not defused.
Further details and any policy clarifications will be released by the government and the relevant ministries as the situation develops.