New Delhi — Indian television broadcasters are grappling with mounting unpaid license fees from distributors in Nepal and Bangladesh, with dues exceeding ₹350 crore. Both countries have yet to clear remittances for the “clean feed” services provided by Indian broadcasters, despite the widespread popularity of these channels in the two nations.
Mounting Dues Across Borders
Industry executives estimate that Bangladesh accounts for over ₹250 crore in unpaid fees, while Nepal owes more than ₹100 crore. The problem has intensified in recent months, particularly in Bangladesh, where payments stopped following the ouster of former President Sheikh Hasina. Distributors have continued airing Indian channels but withheld payments, citing regulatory and political hurdles.
In Nepal, too, Indian channels have faced challenges since April 2023, when the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology abruptly ordered broadcasters to implement an “à la carte” pricing system, similar to India’s New Tariff Order. The sudden two-day deadline left broadcasters struggling to comply, worsening payment delays.
Diplomatic Silence
Neither the Nepalese embassy nor the High Commission of Bangladesh responded to queries on the matter. The Ministry of External Affairs has also not issued a statement. However, the issue may surface in upcoming diplomatic exchanges, with Nepalese Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli expected to visit India in September. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri was in Kathmandu recently for a two-day official trip.
Regulatory and Political Roadblocks
In Bangladesh, the situation has been compounded by financial and political instability. Executives say that Beximco, one of the country’s largest conglomerates, has been unable to secure remittance clearance from the central bank to pay Indian broadcasters. With domestic politics dominating priorities, diplomats and officials appear reluctant to address the commercial concerns of Indian broadcasters.
Clean Feed, But No Payouts
Indian broadcasters continue to provide “clean feed” signals—ad-free live programming—to both countries, ensuring uninterrupted access for viewers. However, with payments stalled, broadcasters warn that the mounting dues are becoming increasingly unsustainable, raising concerns over the long-term viability of such arrangements.