A statement from the Bangladesh Information and Broadcast Ministry indicated that the BCCI did not provide a “logical reason” for directing the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to remove Rahman from its 2026 roster.
The IPL is set to commence on March 26.
This decision to ban the IPL broadcast was made a day after Bangladesh declined to travel to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup, requesting the International Cricket Council to relocate all its league matches to Sri Lanka, which is co-hosting the tournament.
“No logical reason for such a decision (Rahman’s release) by the BCCI is known, and this decision has saddened, hurt, and aggrieved the people of Bangladesh,” the government notification stated.
“In light of this situation, it is hereby requested to cease the broadcasting/telecasting of all matches and programs related to the Indian Premier League (IPL) until further notice.
“This order is issued with the approval of the proper authority and in the public interest,” signed by Assistant Secretary Feroz Khan.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, while announcing the decision to release Rahman, simply stated it was due to “developments all around,” without providing further clarification.
The relationship between India and Bangladesh has soured following the ousting of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who sought refuge in India in August last year amid widespread anti-government protests.
She has been sentenced to death in absentia by a tribunal for her alleged involvement in a violent crackdown during the protests that resulted in several student fatalities.
Hindus have faced violent attacks since Hasina’s removal from power.
