Afghan Clerics Want Ban On Indian TV Soap Operas

ANI reported yesterday that in Afghanistan, the Islamic Council of Scholars is demanding that the government ban popular Indian soap operas being shown on Afghan TV channels (dubbed in the local Dari language). They argue that the shows encourage idol worship, even though Hindu images are pixelated and worship scenes have been cut. Apparently all activities come to a halt around the country at 8:30 p.m. as everyone watches Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi (Because a Mother-in-law was once a Daughter-in-law Too). This has led to a dramatic decline in attendance at evening Namaz prayers. Afghanistan's Minister for Information and Culture has threatened to prosecute TV channel operators if they continue with soap operas deemed offensive to public morality.