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Netflix India Exec Summoned by Government Over Controversial Web Series

September 2, 2024 at 11:51:25 AM GMT+5:30

The head of the Indian branch of Netflix, a leading entertainment streaming platform, has been summoned by the government due to the growing controversy surrounding the web series "IC 814". The series depicts the 1999 hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight by terrorist group Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, leading to tension between India and Pakistan. Amid calls for a ban, the news of the government's summons has sparked debate about creative freedom and political censorship in the entertainment industry.

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Indian Government Summons Netflix India Head Over 'IC 814' Series Controversy

The Indian government has summoned Monika Shergill, the head of the Indian branch of Netflix, over the streaming platform's recent web series, "IC 814." The series recreates the 1999 hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight by the terrorist group Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, an event that escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.

Background

The hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 on December 24, 1999, is a pivotal event in Indian history. The plane, carrying 178 passengers and 11 crew members, was hijacked by five terrorists belonging to Harkat-ul-Mujahideen. The terrorists demanded the release of Masood Azhar, a prominent militant leader, in exchange for the hostages.

After a tense week-long standoff, the hijackers surrendered in Kandahar, Afghanistan, after the Indian government agreed to release three imprisoned terrorists in exchange for the passengers and crew. The event sparked widespread outrage and raised concerns about terrorism and diplomacy.

Controversy over 'IC 814' Series

The Netflix series "IC 814" has reignited memories of the tragic event. Some viewers have praised the series for its portrayal of the incident and highlighting the trauma faced by the hostages. However, others have criticized the series for allegedly glorifying terrorists and insensitively depicting the horrific events.

The Indian government has expressed concerns about the series' impact on the victims and their families. It has also questioned whether the series accurately portrays the events and the role of the Indian government in the negotiations.

Government Summons and Debate

In light of these concerns, the government has summoned Shergill to clarify Netflix's position on the series. This move has sparked a debate about creative freedom and political censorship in the entertainment industry.

Some argue that the government is overstepping its authority by interfering with artistic expression. They contend that the series is a fictionalized account of real events and should not be subject to censorship. Others believe that the government has a responsibility to safeguard the sentiments of victims and prevent the glorification of terrorism.

Top 5 FAQs and Answers

  1. What is 'IC 814'?

    • 'IC 814' is a Netflix series that recreates the 1999 hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight by Harkat-ul-Mujahideen.
  2. Why is the series controversial?

    • The series has been criticized for allegedly glorifying terrorists and insensitively depicting the traumatic events of the hijacking.
  3. What is the Indian government's stance on the series?

    • The government has expressed concerns about the series' impact on victims and questioned its accuracy. It has summoned Netflix India's head to clarify the platform's position.
  4. What is the debate surrounding the series?

    • The debate centers on creative freedom and political censorship in the entertainment industry. Some argue that the government should not interfere with artistic expression, while others believe it has a responsibility to protect the sentiments of victims.
  5. What has happened in the past regarding this topic?

    • In the past, the Indian government has taken similar action against content deemed offensive or inflammatory. In 2020, a Netflix film called "A Suitable Boy" was briefly banned over concerns about its portrayal of Hindu-Muslim relations.
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