No Barrier to Broadcasting IPL in Bangladesh

The Indian Premier League (IPL) could soon return to television screens in Bangladesh, as the government has shifted its stance and eased previous restrictions on its broadcast.

The current government has moved away from its earlier strict position on IPL broadcasting and adopted a more flexible approach. Information Minister Zahid Uddin Swapan clarified the government’s position in an interview with German media outlet Deutsche Welle.

Explaining the change in policy, the minister said the government is now taking a positive view on the matter. He stated, “No one has approached us with any application to broadcast the IPL. We do not want to politicize sports. If any channel applies to us for permission to air the IPL, we will consider it positively.”

Further clarifying the government’s stance, he indicated that there would be no objection even if IPL matches are aired through international broadcasting platforms. In this regard, he said, “We will not stop anyone. If it can be viewed, it will be. Nothing will be forced.”

Meanwhile, State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque also addressed the issue from a sporting perspective. He emphasized maintaining friendly relations between countries and urged that sports should be kept separate from politics. He said, “We do not want to mix sports with politics.” However, he also pointed out a practical limitation, adding, “The broadcasting rights for the PSL have already been purchased, so there is no scope to rethink anything at this moment.”