Monika Shergill, the content chief of Netflix India, has been called to appear before the government after their series 'IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack' received backlash for using only Hindu codenames for the hijackers. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting expressed concern over the portrayal of hijackers and demanded an explanation from Shergill. This development highlights the sensitivity surrounding depicting historical and cultural events in content.
Netflix India's 'Kandahar Hijack' Controversy: Government Summons Content Chief
Netflix India's highly anticipated series 'IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack' has been embroiled in a controversy, leading to the government summoning its content chief for an explanation.
Background:
The series, which premiered on December 23rd, is based on the true story of the 1999 hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight by five Pakistani terrorists. The hijackers demanded the release of 36 militants imprisoned in India.
Controversy:
The controversy erupted after it was revealed that the series used only Hindu codenames for the hijackers, while portraying them as having Muslim names in real life. This sparked allegations of communal bias and misrepresentation of the historical event.
Government Response:
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) expressed concern over the portrayal of the hijackers and demanded an explanation from Netflix India's content chief, Monika Shergill. Shergill has been summoned to appear before the government on January 10th, 2023.
Netflix's Statement:
Netflix India has apologized for the "inadvertent error" and clarified that it was not their intention to offend or misrepresent anyone. The streaming giant stated that it was working with the creators to address the concerns raised.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. Why did Netflix use Hindu codenames for the hijackers? Netflix has not provided an official explanation for this decision.
2. What are the implications of using Hindu codenames? The use of Hindu codenames for Muslim hijackers has raised concerns about communal bias and the potential to fuel religious tensions.
3. What is the government's concern? The MIB is concerned that the portrayal of the hijackers in the series may hurt the sentiments of the Muslim community and distort historical facts.
4. What action can the government take? The government can issue a notice to Netflix India, order changes to the series, or even ban its streaming in India.
5. What should Netflix do to resolve the controversy? Netflix should address the concerns raised, consider revising the specific scenes in question, and ensure that future content is historically accurate and respectful of all religious communities.
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