Netflix India has updated the opening disclaimer of its series IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack after a meeting with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
The series faced criticism for featuring Muslim hijackers with Hindu-sounding code names, creating controversy on social media.
The government intervened, questioning why the hijackers’ real names were not initially included in the series.
IC-814 The Controversy
The series, directed by Anubhav Sinha, is based on the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814 by five terrorists from the Pakistan-based group Harkat-ul-Mujahideen.
In the series, the hijackers were called code names like ‘Bhola‘ and ‘Shankar,’ which were used during the hijacking.
However, the absence of their real names led to criticism of historical distortion and insensitivity.
Netflix’s Response
In response to the controversy, Netflix India has updated the disclaimer to include the hijackers’ real and code names.
Monika Shergill, Vice President of Content at Netflix India, stated that the update aims to clarify the event for viewers unfamiliar with it.
She pointed out Netflix’s commitment to authentic storytelling and respecting India’s cultural sentiments.
The Series and Its Impact
IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack features a star-studded cast, including Naseeruddin Shah and Vijay Varma.
Despite the controversy, the series aims to portray the tense eight-day struggle that ended with the release of three high-profile terrorists in exchange for the hostages.
Netflix’s decision to update the disclaimer reflects its effort to address public concerns and ensure content sensitivity.
Will this move satisfy critics and viewers, or will the controversy continue to affect the series’ reputation?