Netflix Adds Disclaimers to Controversial Indian Series Amid Outrage

Netflix will add new disclaimers to the Indian series 'IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack' after criticism for portraying Muslim hijackers as Hindus. The series, based on the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines flight 814, sparked social media outrage and government backlash. Netflix officials were summoned by India's information ministry.

Netflix announced on Tuesday that it will add new disclaimers to its Indian series 'IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack' following widespread social media outrage and government criticism. The uproar centers on the series' portrayal of Muslim hijackers as Hindus.

Released last week, the series fictionalizes the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines flight 814 from Kathmandu, which stirred controversy for showing hijackers under Hindu names. On Tuesday, Netflix officials were reportedly summoned by India's information and broadcasting ministry. In response, Netflix said it would update the opening disclaimer to include the real and code names of the hijackers.

Over the weekend, the hashtag #BoycottNetflix trended on X, with critics, including those from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP, accusing the series of misleading audiences and legitimizing the hijackers. The hijacking incident, blamed on Pakistan and militant groups, ended after three Islamist militants were freed by India. The show features well-known actors like Naseeruddin Shah and Vijay Varma, and is based on a book by flight captain Devi Sharan and journalist Srinjoy Chowdhury.

(With inputs from agencies.)