Indian Airlines Flight 814: A Look Back at One of India's Largest Hostage Crises
An Overview of the Hijacking
On December 24, 1999, Indian Airlines Flight 814 was hijacked shortly after takeoff from Kathmandu, Nepal. The hijackers, belonging to the Harkat-ul-Mujahideen terrorist group, demanded the release of three imprisoned militants in exchange for the safety of the passengers and crew.
Negotiations and Hostage Situation
Initial Negotiations
Negotiations between Indian authorities and the hijackers began immediately. The hijackers initially demanded the release of Masood Azhar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, all of whom were involved in the 1994 kidnapping and murder of Western tourists in Kashmir.
Kandahar Crisis
After negotiations stalled, the hijackers diverted the plane to Kandahar, Afghanistan, where the Taliban was in control. The situation turned into a hostage crisis, with the passengers and crew held captive for eight days.
Resolution and Aftermath
Release of Prisoners
Under intense international pressure, the Indian government agreed to release the three imprisoned militants in exchange for the release of the hostages.
End of Hostage Situation
On December 31, 1999, the hostages and crew were released, ending the eight-day ordeal.
Aftermath
The Indian Airlines Flight 814 hijacking had a lasting impact on India. It led to increased security measures at airports and raised concerns about the growing threat of terrorism in the region.
Key Figures
Anubhav Sinha
Anubhav Sinha, an Indian journalist, was one of the passengers on Flight 814. He later wrote a book about his experience, titled "Kandahar: Behind Enemy Lines."
Vijay Varma
Vijay Varma, an Indian diplomat, played a key role in negotiations with the hijackers. He was eventually appointed as India's ambassador to Afghanistan in 2001.
Conclusion
The hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814 remains a defining moment in India's history. It highlighted the challenges and complexities of combating terrorism and emphasized the importance of international cooperation in such situations.
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