The recently released Netflix series, IC 814 Kandahar Hijack, has caused quite a stir on social media with its portrayal of the infamous hijacking incident. While the web show has received positive reviews from critics, it is also creating controversy for its alleged 'pro-terrorist' and 'anti-government' narrative. Social media users are questioning the director's decision to name two of the hijackers as 'Shankar' and 'Bhola' and are accusing the show of whitewashing the true story. As the controversy continues to trend on social media, let's take a closer look at the points that have sparked the debate.
The IC 814 Kandahar Hijack Controversy: Alleged Pro-Terrorist Narrative in Netflix Series
The recent Netflix series, "IC 814 Kandahar Hijack," has stirred controversy on social media for its alleged "pro-terrorist" and "anti-government" narrative. The series portrays the infamous 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814, which was carried out by a group of Pakistani terrorists.
Background of the Hijacking
On December 24, 1999, Indian Airlines Flight 814, carrying 189 passengers and crew, was hijacked shortly after take-off from Kathmandu, Nepal. The plane was forced to land in Kandahar, Afghanistan, where it was held for eight days. The hijackers demanded the release of Masood Azhar, a prominent Kashmiri separatist leader, and his comrades from Indian prisons. The Indian government eventually agreed to the demands in exchange for the release of the hostages.
Controversy over Netflix Series
The Netflix series has drawn criticism for its portrayal of the incident. Critics allege that the show whitewashes the true story by presenting the hijackers as sympathetic characters and downplaying their terrorist motives. Specifically, they point to the decision to name two of the hijackers as "Shankar" and "Bhola," which are common Hindu names. They argue that this choice suggests that the hijackers were not driven by religious extremism but by socio-economic grievances.
Social Media Response
The controversy has sparked a heated debate on social media. Many users have expressed anger and called for the show to be banned. They argue that it glorifies terrorism and undermines the sacrifices of the Indian security forces who fought against the hijackers. However, some users have defended the show, arguing that it provides a nuanced portrayal of a complex事件and doesn't seek to justify the actions of the hijackers.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Why are the hijackers named "Shankar" and "Bhola"?
The show's director, Neeraj Pandey, has stated that the names were chosen to reflect the fact that the hijackers were not religious fanatics but ordinary men driven by desperation.
2. Does the show glorify terrorism?
The show does not explicitly glorify terrorism but it has been criticized for presenting the hijackers as sympathetic characters. It is important to note that the series is based on historical events and does not claim to be an accurate portrayal of all aspects of the incident.
3. What is the Indian government's response?
The Indian government has remained silent on the controversy so far. However, some government officials have privately expressed their concerns about the show's portrayal of the hijackers.
4. Will the show be banned?
It is unlikely that the show will be banned in India. The country has a history of freedom of speech and expression, and it is doubtful that a court would find the show to be offensive enough to warrant a ban.
5. How accurate is the show's portrayal of events?
The show is based on historical events but it is important to remember that it is a dramatization and may not be entirely accurate. The show's director has admitted that he made some changes to the story for dramatic effect.
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