BTRC Orders ISPs to Halt Unauthorized Satellite Pay Channels

Pirated Channels with Advertisements Violate Telecom Regulations

Several internet service providers (ISPs) in Bangladesh have been broadcasting satellite pay channels, including advertisements, without proper authorization. In response, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has instructed them to take immediate action to shut down these unauthorized channels.

On March 19, BTRC issued a directive to licensed ISPs, stating that the illegal broadcasting of these channels is harming the Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL). The notice further emphasized that the use of unauthorized technology to air satellite channels with advertisements violates the country's telecommunication laws. The ISPs have been given 10 working days to take necessary measures and report back to BTRC.

The directive from BTRC states, "Some ISPs are illegally using unauthorized technology to pirate pay channels broadcasted by approved foreign channel distributors and display them, along with advertisements, via internet connections in residential areas. Additionally, similar activities are being conducted on certain digital platforms. As a result, the number of foreign channels under the service of Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL) is gradually decreasing."

Officials from BSCL have pointed out that television cable operators lawfully provide foreign channels to customers using BSCL services. However, some ISPs are bypassing this process and illegally streaming these channels through the internet, reducing the revenue of TV operators. BSCL has already raised this issue with the relevant authorities.

To address the situation, BSCL has recently held discussions with BTRC and the Ministry of Information to enforce the shutdown of unauthorized satellite pay channels without clean feed.