From @gbarr

I think we have got ahead of ourselve here. looking at the code
more closely __END__ will only keep the file open if !PL_in_eval
which is only true for the script perl is called with. Also
Package​::DATA is only set with __DATA__. __END__ will ALWAYS
set main​::DATA

So __END__ in packages should not be keeping the filehandle open
so I think that what happens now is the right thing todo.

so what was the problem again ?

--
Since you're clearly mad as a mongoose, I'll bid you good-day.
  -- Edmund to Captain Rum : Black Adder II "Potato"