The recent controversy surrounding the film ‘Dhurandhar 2’ has sparked significant debate regarding the ISI and its operations in Pakistan.
How it unfolded
On March 19, 2026, the political landscape in Uttar Pradesh, Pakistan, was stirred by the release of the film ‘Dhurandhar 2’. The film has been criticized for its portrayal of criminal and political figures, particularly linking Atiq Ahmed to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). S.T. Hasan, a prominent political figure, publicly condemned the film, asserting that the police are well aware of the actual connections of those depicted. He stated, “Who they were connected to and who they were not, our police know this very well.” This statement reflects the ongoing tensions regarding the portrayal of political figures in media and the implications it has for public perception.
Despite the film’s claims, intelligence agencies have not confirmed any links between Atiq Ahmed and the ISI. This lack of confirmation has led to further scrutiny of the ISI’s role in managing public narratives and its effectiveness in addressing the challenges posed by various militant groups in the region.
Field Marshal Asim Munir, the head of the ISI, has recently warned of a potential shake-up within the agency due to intelligence failures. His remarks came in light of the growing influence of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has been operating a parallel government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The ISI has faced criticism for its inability to provide actionable intelligence on the TTP, which has raised questions about its operational effectiveness and collaboration with the military.
The relationship between the ISI and the army appears to be strained, with reports suggesting that they are not aligned on operational strategies. This discord could have significant implications for national security, particularly as the TTP continues to expand its influence in the region.
In a related incident, two individuals, Azeem Rana and Azad Rajput, were arrested in Uttar Pradesh for allegedly sharing information with a Pakistan-based gang. This development highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by law enforcement in the region and the potential for cross-border criminal activities.
Waris Pathan, another political figure, commented on the broader implications of these events, stating, “Efforts are being made to spread hatred in the country.” This statement underscores the political tensions that are exacerbated by media portrayals and the actions of various groups within Pakistan.
As the situation evolves, the implications of the ISI’s operational challenges and the political fallout from the film ‘Dhurandhar 2’ remain to be seen. The controversy not only raises questions about the effectiveness of intelligence operations but also about the influence of media narratives on public perception and political discourse in Pakistan.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the extent of the ISI’s involvement in the events surrounding the film and the ongoing security challenges posed by groups like the TTP. The unfolding narrative will likely continue to shape the political landscape in Pakistan in the coming months.
