The 1984 Plane Hijacking Crisis
In August 1984, an Indian Airlines flight from Delhi to Srinagar was hijacked by pro-Khalistani militants and taken to Dubai. The crisis, which lasted 36 hours, involved intense negotiations and ended with the hijackers surrendering and all passengers being safely released.
Jaishankar’s Unexpected Personal Link
S. Jaishankar, then a young officer, was deeply involved in managing the hijacking crisis. He was part of the team working tirelessly to resolve the situation. During the chaos, he discovered that his father, K. Subrahmanyam, a distinguished civil servant, was one of the passengers on the hijacked flight.
The Shock of Discovering His Father’s Presence
Jaishankar’s role in the crisis took on a personal dimension when he realized his father was on the plane. Initially, he had only informed his mother about his inability to come home due to the hijacking. It was later that he learned his father was among the hostages, adding an emotional strain to his professional responsibilities.
A Dual Role: Negotiator and Family Member
While managing the crisis as part of the official team, Jaishankar was also dealing with the anxiety of a family member. He described the situation as uniquely challenging because he was both part of the team working on the negotiations and a concerned family member pressing for updates.
Reflections on the Netflix Series
Recently, the Netflix series “IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack” has reignited discussions about the 1984 hijacking. Jaishankar mentioned that he had not watched the series but acknowledged the controversy surrounding it. The show, which dramatizes the events, faced criticism for altering the names of the hijackers, leading to a debate over its accuracy and portrayal.
Historical Context of the Hijacking
The 1984 hijacking was a significant event in Indian aviation history. The plane was taken over by twelve pro-Khalistani hijackers who sought to advance their political agenda. The hijacking was a turning point that highlighted the vulnerabilities in aviation security and the challenges of counter-terrorism.
Reactions and Controversies Surrounding the Series
The series “IC 814” has faced backlash for using code names for the hijackers, which some critics argue obscured their identities. In response to the controversy, Netflix India updated the series’ disclaimer to include both the real and code names, aiming to address concerns about historical accuracy.
Jaishankar’s Legacy and Impact
S. Jaishankar’s involvement in the 1984 hijacking crisis is a testament to his dedication and ability to handle high-pressure situations. His experience during the hijacking, balancing his professional duties and personal concerns, reflects the complex realities faced by individuals in critical roles during emergencies.
Jaishankar’s Career and Contributions
Today, S. Jaishankar serves as India’s External Affairs Minister, continuing his legacy of public service and diplomacy. His experiences during the 1984 hijacking have shaped his approach to international relations and crisis management, contributing to his esteemed career in government.