The Bangladesh government has ordered an immediate suspension of all broadcasts and promotional activities related to the Indian Premier League (IPL) across the country. The directive, issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, cites widespread public dissatisfaction as the primary reason for the move.
According to an official circular dated January 5, 2026, media platforms and television channels in Bangladesh have been instructed to stop telecasting matches or publicizing the league until further notice. The order originates from the Bangladesh Secretariat in Dhaka and has come into effect immediately.
Mustafizur Rahman exclusion sparks row
The government’s decision appears to be a direct response to recent developments involving the Indian cricket establishment. The official document highlights that the exclusion of Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from IPL participation has caused significant resentment among local cricket fans.
Mustafizur, who has been associated with the Kolkata Knight Riders, was reportedly barred from participating. The ministry’s circular notes that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) did not provide a clear or acceptable justification for this decision. This lack of transparency has been described by officials as a move that has hurt public sentiment in Bangladesh.
“In the present situation, until further directions are issued, all IPL matches and related promotional activities should remain suspended.” — Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Directive
Temporary but open-ended ban
The suspension order was signed by Mohammad Firoz Khan, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. While the directive clarifies that the restriction is temporary, it remains open-ended pending further government review.
The ministry emphasized that the instruction was issued with the approval of the appropriate authority to safeguard public interest. The IPL commands a massive viewership in Bangladesh, with millions of fans tuning in to watch international stars. This administrative intervention marks a rare instance where a sports-related dispute has triggered a government-level ban on media content.
As of now, neither the IPL governing council nor the Indian cricket board has issued a response to the directive from Dhaka.
