Peace TV Bangla Overview

Background Information

• Peace TV Network: Third Islamic satellite channel launched after English and Urdu.
  • Launch Dates:
    • Peace TV English: January 2006
    • Peace TV Urdu: June 2009
    • Peace TV Bangla: April 2011
• Significance of Bangla Language:
  • 6th largest language in the world.
  • High viewership from Bangladesh, leading to its early launch.

Controversies and Impact

• 2016 Attack in Dhaka:
  • Terrorists killed 21-22 foreigners.
  • One terrorist was a follower of Dr. Zakir Naik.
  • Misinterpretation by media; claimed Dr. Zakir inspired the terrorist.
  • Indian media manipulation led to backlash against Dr. Zakir.
• Government Response:
  • Indian government pressured Bangladesh to ban Peace TV.
  • Close ties between Indian government and Bangladesh government during Sheikh Hasina's term.
• Bans:
  • Peace TV is officially banned in India and Bangladesh.
  • Other countries do not have such bans.

Current Status of Peace TV Bangla

• Despite the ban, Peace TV Bangla continues to broadcast:
  • Available via private dishes and satellite (IS20, Intelsat 20).
  • Significant viewership in Bangladesh and West Bengal (approx. 2/3 from Bangladesh, 1/3 from India).
• New government in Bangladesh could influence the reopening of cable/satellite access.

Future Prospects

• Restoration of Peace TV Bangla:
  • Dependent on the political climate in Bangladesh.
  • Optimistic that Peace TV could be restored soon if the new government is not aligned with Indian interests.
  • Expectation for restoration within a few days to a few months.
• Social Media Reach:
  • Many Bangladeshis benefiting from Peace TV content on social media platforms.

Conclusion

• Call for prayers to support the restoration of Peace TV Bangla.
• Importance of spreading the message of Islam in Bangladesh.