UK's Ofcom Revokes Broadcast Licences of Indian-Focused MATV Amid Political Concerns

The UK media regulator, Ofcom, has revoked broadcast licences for MATV, a channel providing Indian diaspora-focused content, effective immediately. This follows a probe initiated last August, revealing Middlesex Broadcasting Corporation Limited (MBCL) lacked editorial control over MATV's programming.

While MATV National broadcast various Indian languages, its counterpart, MATV Music, remained inactive. Ofcom's statement highlighted the legal obligation for broadcasters to maintain control over their services. Allegations of political affiliation are noted, linking MBCL’s contact with the Overseas Friends of the Bharatiya Janata Party (OFBJP) UK.

Efforts by MATV to reconfigure its leadership to comply with regulations are yet to be formally recognized. MATV claims the decision is politically driven, arguing OFBJP is a social body, not a political entity. They plan to resolve issues with Ofcom to resume broadcasts.