Netflix is currently facing criticism from both a section of the public and the Indian government over its web series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack.
The controversy arose due to the portrayal of terrorists using Hindu codenames instead of their real names, which many people found offensive.
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This led to a backlash on social media, with calls to boycott Netflix for allegedly disrespecting the Hindu community.
In response, Netflix updated the opening credits of the series to include the real names of the terrorists involved in the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814.
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The company stated that the codenames used in the series were based on those used during the actual event, but they added the real names to provide clarity for viewers. Apart from this update, no other changes were made to the series.
However, some people remain dissatisfied with Netflix’s response, arguing that the series still doesn’t fully address their concerns, such as highlighting the role of Pakistan’s ISI in the hijacking.
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This group feels that the series should include a frame at the end mentioning the CBI chargesheet, which identified ISI as the prime culprit. They argue that without this addition, the series continues to be a piece of propaganda.
Their frustration is compounded by the fact that Netflix will only change the disclaimer and continue streaming the show without further edits or censorship.
They believe the series still portrays the BJP government as weak in its response to the terrorists, and they’re unhappy that the current Modi government hasn’t taken stronger action against the series.
Actually speaking, the Indian government’s involvement in controversies like the one surrounding IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack seems unnecessary and even absurd.
In a country facing much more significant challenges, focusing on a web series feels trivial.
The double standard in the government’s approach: while it supports films like The Kerala Story and The Kashmir Files, which were full of propaganda, it can’t seem to tolerate a series that exposes its past cowardly deeds.
This kind of government intervention is not just misplaced but also a potential infringement on freedom of expression, as it appears to suppress creative content that doesn’t fit the government’s preferred narrative.
Interestingly, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack has gained significant attention and popularity. The debate and backlash surrounding the series have unintentionally boosted its visibility, making more people curious to watch it.
Ironically, those who protested against the series have helped increase its audience. It wouldn’t be surprising if the web series breaks all previous viewership records on Netflix.
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