YouTube Blocks Multiple Bangladeshi TV Channels in India Citing Security Concerns

The YouTube broadcasts of several Bangladeshi television channels—Jamuna TV, Ekattor TV, BanglaVision, and Mohona TV—have been blocked in India following a request from the Indian government, which cited national security concerns. According to sources, in addition to these four, at least three other Bangladeshi channels—Somoy TV, DBC News, and ATN News—are also currently inaccessible in India via YouTube, bringing the total number of affected channels to more than seven.

This move has drawn criticism from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology. Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser of the ministry, stated that this action appears to violate international consumer rights norms. He said that the government would seek an explanation from YouTube regarding the block on these TV channels.

In a Facebook post made on Friday night (9 May), Taiyeb wrote, “YouTube authorities have geo-blocked at least four Bangladeshi TV stations for India. As a result, Bangladeshi citizens living in India can no longer view these channels, which infringes upon their right to access content.”

He further added, “Geo-blocking Bangladesh as a broadcast region seems to contradict international consumer rights principles. We will demand a clear explanation from YouTube. If we do not receive a satisfactory response, we will be compelled to consider reciprocal measures.”