The Hindu: Published on 1st Oct 2025.
Why in News?
Indian broadcasters such as Zee, Star, Sony, and Viacom are facing mounting unpaid dues from distributors in Nepal and Bangladesh. Reports suggest that over ₹350 crore (₹100 crore from Nepal and the rest from Bangladesh) has remained unpaid since 2023. The crisis has worsened after political instability in both countries, particularly the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in Bangladesh.
Background:
Indian entertainment channels are very popular in Nepal and Bangladesh, especially Hindi and Bengali channels.
These countries receive a “clean feed” — Indian channels minus ads that are irrelevant or not legally permitted in those countries.
Foreign distributors pay Indian broadcasters in U.S. dollars, under commercial uplinking/downlinking agreements.
However, both Nepal and Bangladesh have strict broadcast regulations that make operations expensive and complex.
Key Issues:
Unpaid Dues
Nepalese and Bangladeshi TV distributors owe over ₹350 crore.
Nepal owes about ₹100 crore, while Bangladesh owes the bulk.
Political Instability & Economic Crisis
Bangladesh: After Sheikh Hasina’s ouster, the new regime has prioritized essential sectors like medicine and electricity, sidelining media payments.
Nepal: Sudden regulatory changes in 2023 and the resignation of PM K.P. Sharma Oli have caused additional uncertainty.
Foreign Exchange Approval:
Even if distributors have money, they need government or central bank approval to release foreign exchange. Political delays have blocked payments.
Piracy Concerns:
If Indian broadcasters cut their feeds, local distributors could pirate signals using Indian satellite receivers.
In the past, Nepalese cable operators have pirated feeds, removing Indian logos and adding their own.
Weak Enforcement Mechanisms:
International arbitration exists but Indian companies have little faith in the judicial systems of Nepal and Bangladesh.
Indian diplomatic missions in Dhaka and Kathmandu have limited influence in pushing governments to clear dues.
Impact:
Financial Loss: Indian broadcasters are losing large sums (₹350+ crore), affecting profitability.
Market Risk: Legitimate presence in Nepal and Bangladesh is at risk; piracy may replace official feeds.
Diplomatic Concern: Highlights the limited power of India’s cultural diplomacy despite strong people-to-people ties.
Industry Precedent: Could discourage Indian firms from expanding media businesses in smaller South Asian markets.
Comparison with Other Sectors:
Adani Power (electricity supply to Bangladesh) and Airtel (internet access to Nepal) have more leverage, since cutting off services causes immediate crises.
Broadcasters lack such leverage — entertainment is easily replaceable or pirated.
Future Outlook:
Resolution may depend on political stability in Bangladesh and Nepal.
Stronger anti-piracy measures and government-to-government negotiations may be needed.
Indian broadcasters may also demand financial guarantees before continuing services in unstable economies.
Summary in One Line:
Indian broadcasters face over ₹350 crore in unpaid dues from Nepal and Bangladesh due to political instability, forex restrictions, and regulatory hurdles, while piracy risks make cutting off feeds a weak option.
