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Seven organisations representing Bangladesh’s television drama industry have expressed deep concern and protested against a legal notice seeking strict restrictions on the production and broadcast of romance-based films and dramas.
In a joint statement, the organisations said a blanket ban on romantic content was incompatible with the development of the creative arts and could threaten the livelihoods and creative activities of thousands of professionals, including actors, directors, producers and technicians.
They stressed that Bangladesh’s television and audiovisual industry has long played an important role in the country’s culture, entertainment, creativity and economy. They also acknowledged the need for responsible and quality content while calling for creative freedom and artists’ right to expression within existing laws and regulations.
The legal notice was sent on Thursday to the Cabinet Secretary, Secretaries of the Information and Broadcasting and Cultural Affairs ministries, and the chairman of the Bangladesh Film Censor Board.
The notice alleged that excessive romantic content, including portrayals of extramarital relationships, was contributing to moral decline among young people and negatively affecting family values and social order. It called for strict restrictions on romance-based productions and mandatory promotion of films and dramas focusing on science, education, history, the Liberation War and defence.
The notice cited Articles 21(1), 23 and 39 of the Constitution, arguing that although freedom of expression is protected, reasonable restrictions may be imposed in the interests of decency and morality.
The notice gives the authorities 10 days to inform the sender of steps taken. Otherwise, the lawyer said, a writ petition would be filed with the High Court under Article 102 of the Constitution.