A writ petition was filed today with the High Court seeking directives on the government to stop operation of three Indian television channels -- Star Jalsa, Star Plus and Zee Bangla, in Bangladesh.

Ekhlas Uddin Bhuiyan, a Supreme Court lawyer, filed the writ seeking a HC rule upon the government to explain why it should not be directed to stop operations of all Indian television channels in Bangladesh.

In the petition, he said programmes broadcast by the three channels left adverse impact on social and cultural life of Bangladeshi people.

Education of the students and regular functions of housewives are being hampered as they keep watching the programmes of the channels, he mentioned in the petition.

Bhuiyan on August 3 served a legal notice on the government, asking it to stop operation of Indian TV channels in Bangladesh within 24 hours.

Being influenced by drama serial 'Bojhena Se Bojhena' aired by Indian television channel Star Jalsa, a class II student at Gobindaganj in Gaibandha has reportedly committed suicide as she did not get 'Pakhi' dress, the lawyer said in the notice.

A scene from the 'Bojhena Se Bojhena' Indian Bangla serial. Photo taken from Facebook

“Pakhi” dress is used in 'Bojhena Se Bojhena' serial.

One Shahin of Nondoteghori village in Sherpur upazila of Bogra had reportedly killed himself as he could not provide 'Pakhi' dress to his wife, he added.

On the other hand, Bangladeshi television channels are not allowed to broadcast in India, he said in the legal notice.

The HC is likely hold the hearing on the petition on next Sunday, the SC lawyer told The Daily Star.