Netflix Course Correction: Streamer Assures Review of IC814, Rectification Of Controversial Content

Netflix Course Correction: The India head of the streaming giant was summoned by the Ministry Of Information and Broadcasting today, September 3. Following the meeting, the streamer has reportedly assured a thorough review of the web series IC814 The Kandahar Hijack which has erupted in controversy. Based on the book Flight Into Fear: The Captain's Story, written by journalist Srinjoy Chowdhury and Devi Sharan, who was the captain of the IC 814 flight, the series makers have been accused of whitewashing terrorists' image by swapping their identities, giving clean chit to Pakistani's ISI and making a mockery of authorities.

Netflix assures corrective measures against IC814: The Kandahar Hijack 

Following a one-hour meeting, sources have told Republic World the inside details of what was discussed. Insiders in the know have informed that Netflix has alleged that they have only adapted what was written in the book and not added any other information. Furthermore, it is also being reported that the book writers will be summoned after Netflix.  

However, the Netflix head has reportedly assured that, “Several scenes from web series will be cut, and changes will be made to show terrorists in a less humane light.” “Netflix has provided an assurance to conduct a content review and guarantee that all future content on their platform will be sensitive to and in accordance with the nation's sentiments”, govt sources told ANI. Earlier they had said, “Nobody has the right to play with the sentiments of the people of this nation. India's culture and civilization should always be respected. You should think before portraying something in a wrong manner. The govt is taking it very seriously."

Why are people boycotting IC814: The Kandahar Hijack?

IC814: The Kandahar Hijack is directed by Anubhav Sinha and features Vijay Varma in the lead role as captain Devi Sharan. However, following the release of the series social media users slammed it over the alleged whitewashing of the Pakistani intelligence agency, ISI, for humanising the cruel terrorists and over its misleading content. Several users also alleged that the religion of the hijackers was deliberately changed by the makers. '

A PIL submitted in the Delhi High Court seeks for the ban of public view of the series and withdrawal of CBFC certification. “The distortion of crucial facts about the real identities of the hijackers not only misrepresents historical events but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes and misinformation, warranting interference of this court to prevent further public misunderstanding and potential harm,” the petition said.  The plea alleged that the mini-series erroneously shows the real hijackers as having Hindu names, including ‘Bhola’ and ‘Shankar’, the other names of Lord Shiva, which hurt the sentiments of the Hindu community.

(With inputs from agencies)