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The Netflix docu-series 'IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack' has stirred controversy due to the use of aliases for the hijackers, with the cabin crew head of the hijacked flight, Anil Sharma, defending the practice. Sharma stated that the terrorists were known by these aliases from the beginning, emphasizing that the filmmakers did not assign them. The use of aliases, particularly 'Bhola' and 'Shankar,' sparked debate, leading to a back-and-forth between the filmmakers, Netflix, and the Indian government.
While Sharma acknowledged that the use of the names might seem peculiar, considering their Hindu connotations, he pointed out that the hijackers had other names that were relatively neutral. He asserted that the motives behind choosing these particular aliases remain unclear, given the passage of 24 years since the incident. Sharma expressed discomfort with the overall portrayal of the hijacking in the docu-series, criticizing the changes made to the names of the pilots, flight engineers, and even his own name. He also highlighted the omission of five cabin crew members from the depiction.
The controversy intensified when the Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting intervened, urging the filmmakers to incorporate a disclaimer clarifying the real and code names of the hijackers. Sharma commended the ministry's action but questioned the need for such an intervention. He argued that the disclaimer could have been included earlier, before the public outcry surrounding the use of aliases. In response to the controversy, Netflix has issued an official statement, confirming the updated disclaimer that now includes both the real and code names of the hijackers. The platform's content head for India stated that they have taken steps to address the concerns raised and ensure a clearer understanding of the events depicted in the docu-series.