Assam CM Links Film Success to BJP's Electoral Strength Amid Controversy

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has stirred political discussions by linking the success of the film 'Dhurandhar' to the BJP's electoral strength. In response to Congress's claims that the film promotes a specific ideology, Sarma highlighted the large audience turnout as a sign of the party's support. Congress MP Tariq Anwar criticized the film, alleging it incites communal division and questioning its portrayal of gangster Atiq Ahmed. The controversy raises significant concerns about the film's impact on social cohesion in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 21, 2026, 11:00 IST

Political Debate Arises from Film's Popularity

On Friday, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma sparked a political discussion by associating the commercial success of the film 'Dhurandhar' with the electoral strength of the BJP. Responding to Congress's allegations that the film promotes a specific ideology, Sarma stated that the large audience turnout reflects the party's broad support base. He mentioned to reporters that the audience numbers indicate a significant presence of BJP-RSS supporters globally, suggesting that many viewers could eventually translate into votes for the BJP, which he views as a positive sign for the party.

Congress Criticism and Allegations

Sarma noted that since Congress labeled 'Dhurandhar' as an 'RSS film,' more people have been flocking to see it. Congress MP Tariq Anwar sharply criticized these comments, accusing the filmmakers of inciting communal division. He argued that the film's depiction of violence aims to foster hostility towards a particular community.

Anwar claimed that the film is part of a broader political agenda. He warned that such narratives could deepen social divides and have long-term consequences for the nation. He further argued that the film's message could inadvertently benefit Pakistan, referencing historical contexts involving Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Anwar asserted that this narrative promotes divisive ideas that challenge coexistence among communities, thereby undermining India's social fabric.

Concerns Over Portrayal of Gangster

The Congress leader expressed objections to the portrayal of gangster Atiq Ahmed in the film, particularly regarding claims of his connections to Pakistan's ISI. He dismissed these portrayals as baseless and accused the BJP of spreading misinformation through cinema. In response to these claims, former Jammu and Kashmir DGP SP Vaid defended the film, stating that its narrative reflects known facts. He emphasized that Atiq Ahmed's criminal history and alleged links to an illegal arms network are well-documented, and the film merely presents a harsh reality.