In a fresh legal controversy, Indian news agency ANI has filed a lawsuit against Netflix Inc. and the producers of the series IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack. The six-episode series, a dramatized account of the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines flight 814, has been at the center of public scrutiny since its release last month. ANI’s legal representative, Sidhant Kumar, disclosed that the lawsuit demands the removal of four episodes, accusing the show of using ANI’s copyrighted archival footage and trademark without proper authorization.
Adding to the contentious nature of the series, it has faced backlash from social media users and members of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Critics argue the show inaccurately depicts the hijackers as Hindus, despite their identities being Muslim. In response, Netflix added disclaimers to the series, asserting that the code names used were reflective of the actual event. This measure followed a summons from India’s Information and Broadcasting Ministry.
ANI has expressed concerns that the negative reception of the series could harm its trademark and brand reputation. The Delhi High Court has agreed to hear the case and sought a response from Netflix, which has yet to comment on the matter. The hijacking, which occurred in December 1999, was resolved after India agreed to release three Islamist militants, including Masood Azhar, a known militant leader.
Summary Points:
- ANI has sued Netflix for using its archival footage and trademark in the IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack series without permission.
- The series has been criticized for inaccurately portraying the hijackers, leading to Netflix adding disclaimers.
- The Delhi High Court will hear ANI’s case, and Netflix has not yet responded publicly to the allegations.