Netflix Updates ‘IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack’ Disclaimer Amid Controversy Over Hijacker Names

Netflix’s series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack has sparked controversy after viewers objected to the use of certain codenames for the hijackers.

The series, based on the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814, initially used the codenames “Burger,” “Doctor,” “Bhola,” “Shankar,” and “Chief.” The names “Bhola” and “Shankar” drew criticism for their perceived historical inaccuracies.

In response to the backlash, Netflix announced an update to the opening disclaimer of the series.

Monika Shergill, Vice President of Content at Netflix India, stated, “To aid audiences unfamiliar with the 1999 hijacking, the disclaimer will now include both the real and code names of the hijackers. The codenames used in the series are reflective of those employed during the actual event. We are committed to presenting authentic stories within India’s rich cultural storytelling tradition.”

Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the series retains the real-life codenames of the terrorists, despite many character names being fictionalized. The 1999 incident was extensively documented, with survivors, pilot Captain Devi Sharan Singh, and officials recalling these codenames.

The controversy intensified after a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed by Surjit Singh Yadav, calling for the series to be banned. The petition argued that the use of Hindi names for the hijackers was historically inaccurate. This led to social media backlash with hashtags like #BoycottNetflix, #BoycottBollywood, and #IC814 trending.

In defense, casting director Mukesh Chhabra emphasized that the series’ research was thorough, stating on X, “We did the proper research. The hijackers used these names—nicknames or otherwise. Thank you for your support of the ensemble cast and to Anubhav Sinha for his trust and creative freedom.”

IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack is currently streaming on Netflix.

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