The web series ‘IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack’ has sparked significant controversy, leading the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in India to issue a summons to the content head of Netflix India. According to reports from the ANI news agency, Monica Shergill, the head of Indian content for the platform, has been asked to appear in person on Tuesday. This controversy revolves around the choice of names given to the hijackers in the series, referred to as Bhola and Shankar.
‘IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack’ premiered on Netflix on August 29, 2024, and has since generated a buzz on social media. Critics and viewers alike have raised concerns that the creators intentionally named the hijackers Bhola and Shankar, leading to allegations of insensitivity towards the real-life events. The series is based on the hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight (IC-814) that took place in 1999.
Background of the Series
Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the web series is produced by Matchbox Shots in collaboration with Banaras Media Works. It draws inspiration from the book ‘Flight Into Fear: The Captain’s Story’, authored by pilot Devi Sharan and journalist Shrinjoy Chowdhury. The series has received positive reviews from critics for its gripping storytelling and performances, despite the ongoing controversy regarding the naming of the hijackers.
Understanding the Naming Controversy
In December 1999, an Indian Airlines flight from Kathmandu to Delhi was hijacked by five terrorists. During the hijacking, the terrorists communicated using code names rather than their real names. Neelesh Mishra, who wrote the first book on this hijacking, noted that the hijackers used names like Bhola, Shankar, Burger, Doctor, and Chief during the incident. Passengers referred to them using these code names throughout the ordeal.
The Real Identities of the Hijackers
It was later revealed that the actual names of the hijackers were Ibrahim Athar, Sunny Ahmed Qazi, Zahoor Ibrahim, Shahid Akhtar, and Syed Shakeel. Critics argue that the series failed to mention these real names, which has led to public outrage against Anubhav Sinha and Netflix. Viewers are expressing their frustration on social media platforms, questioning the intent behind the portrayal of the hijackers.
Cast and Production
The series features a talented ensemble cast, including Vijay Varma, Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapoor, Dia Mirza, Patralekha, Pooja Gor, and Kumud Mishra. With ‘IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack’, Anubhav Sinha makes his debut in the OTT space, yet his inaugural series has already encountered significant backlash.
Overview of the Kandahar Hijack Incident
The hijacking incident occurred on December 24, 1999, when Indian Airlines Flight 814 was seized while en route from Kathmandu to Delhi with 191 people onboard. Shortly after takeoff, five hijackers took control of the plane, which was diverted to several locations including Amritsar, Lahore, Dubai, and eventually Kandahar in Afghanistan. The web series explores this harrowing incident and the complex dynamics involved in the hostage situation.
