Bangladesh has given the green light for broadcasting the Indian Premier League (IPL), as confirmed by the newly appointed Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan. The government has decided not to mix politics with sports and will assess the situation based on commercial considerations. This move marks a departure from the previous ban imposed by the interim administration, which had caused uncertainty among broadcasters and cable operators.
In a significant policy shift, Minister Swapan stated that channels interested in airing the IPL can submit applications for approval. He emphasized that the government will adopt a positive approach towards granting broadcasting rights for the tournament. International sports networks, including Star Sports, are also welcome to broadcast the IPL in Bangladesh, according to Swapan.
The Cable Operators Association of Bangladesh has expressed support for this decision, confirming that there are no directives preventing the telecast of IPL matches. The association’s office secretary, Rezaul Karim Lablu, clarified that operators are not bound by previous directives and are free to broadcast IPL matches unless new orders are issued.
