India’s Geo-Blocking of Bangladeshi Media Sparks Concerns Over Press Freedom and Bilateral Relations

Reading Time: 2 minutes In a development drawing regional concern, India has geo-blocked four Bangladeshi television channels (Jamuna TV, Ekattor TV, BanglaVision, and Mohona) on YouTube, citing “national security” concerns. The takedown, executed through requests to YouTube, was said to be prompted by rising tensions with Pakistan. However, analysts and regional observers argue that the underlying reason is India’s increasingly strained diplomatic relationship with Bangladesh following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The blocked channels—reportedly known for airing political discourse critical of India’s influence in Bangladeshi politics—are no longer accessible to Indian audiences. Digital rights group Dismislab confirmed that the Indian government initiated the removal through YouTube’s content restriction protocols, but the opaque nature of the action has led to questions about political motivations. While the Indian government officially pointed to escalating tensions with Pakistan, including drone skirmishes and ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, foreign policy