Pulwama Mastermind Hamza Burhan Killed in PoK: Unidentified Attackers Open Fire in Muzaffarabad

UAPA-designated terrorist linked to 2019 Pulwama attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel shot dead outside AIMS College

Killed in Muzaffarabad

Hamza Burhan, a key conspirator behind the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, was shot dead by unidentified attackers in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir's Muzaffarabad late on Tuesday evening. The incident took place outside AIMS College, where multiple gunshots were fired at the 23-year-old terrorist, killing him on the spot. Local sources confirmed that the attackers fled the scene immediately after the assault.

UAPA Designation Since 2022

India had officially declared Burhan a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in 2022. Originally identified as Arjumand Gulzar Dar, he was a resident of Ratnipora in Pulwama district. Government records show he had legally travelled to Pakistan before joining Al Badr, a banned terrorist organisation, where he eventually rose to become a commander.

The Pulwama Link

Investigating agencies have long believed Burhan played a significant role in orchestrating the February 14, 2019 Pulwama attack, which claimed the lives of 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel. The attack, carried out by a suicide bomber driving an explosive-laden vehicle, had pushed India-Pakistan tensions to the brink of conflict.

Travel to Pakistan

According to government documents, Burhan had initially travelled to Pakistan through legal channels. Once across the border, he reportedly established connections with multiple terror outfits and became actively involved in recruitment and funding operations. Sources familiar with the matter said he was operating from Pakistani territory for several years while maintaining ties with terror groups active in the Kashmir Valley.

Accused of Recruitment and Fundraising

Agencies had linked Burhan to several incidents, including the recovery of explosives in Pulwama, a grenade attack on CRPF personnel on November 18, 2020, and efforts to radicalise and recruit local youth into militant ranks. He was also known as a close associate of slain terrorists Abu Dujana, Abu Qasim, Burhan Wani, and Zakir Musa.

Unanswered Questions

The identity of the attackers remains unclear, and no group has claimed responsibility for the killing so far. Local authorities in PoK have not issued an official statement regarding the incident. While some analysts suggest internal rivalries among militant factions, others point to the possibility of targeted operations. Indian security establishment is closely monitoring the situation.

Lyari Residents Seek Share of Blockbuster Collections

Pakistan’s Lyari locals claim a portion of the film’s ₹1,200 crore success, citing damage to their region’s image and demanding funds for infrastructure.

A fresh controversy has erupted around the superhit film ‘Dhurandhar 2’. Residents of Karachi’s Lyari neighbourhood have staked a claim on the movie’s massive box office revenue. They are demanding a cut from the Dhurandhar 2 earnings to rebuild their locality.

Viral Video Sparks Demand

The demand surfaced through a viral video on ‘Comparison TV’ YouTube channel. Local citizens were seen reacting to the film’s unprecedented success. They argued that since the film uses their backyard as a backdrop, they deserve financial compensation.

Box Office Blitz

The action thriller has shattered records since its release. The film has reportedly grossed over ₹1,200 crore within just ten days. Its prequel, ‘Dhurandhar’, had previously collected over ₹1,300 crore globally. The current India News Update confirms the sequel is on track to break all-time industry records.

The Lyari Link

The film’s plot is heavily rooted in the gang wars of Lyari. It depicts the power struggle and enmity between two fictional gangs based in the area. Locals feel the portrayal, while popular, has stigmatised their community.

A Demand for ₹500 Crore

In the viral clip, one resident demanded a specific sum of ₹500 crore. He insisted this money is required to fix broken roads and sewage lines. Another person went further, asking for 70-80% of the total earnings. “If they earn thousands of crores showing our fights, they must fix our streets,” a resident said.

Official Reactions Awaited

There has been no official response from the film’s director, Aditya Dhar, or the producers. Indian legal experts suggest such a demand holds no standing in Indian courts. However, the controversy has become a major Public Interest Story on social media.

Analysis of the Absurd Claim

The demand highlights a unique reaction to cross-border art. While the film enjoys blockbuster status in India, the reaction in Lyari shows a sense of economic grievance. Industry analysts see this as a publicity stunt rather than a serious legal battle.

What Next for the Makers

The makers are currently focused on the film’s international release. They are unlikely to entertain this Government Updates-style demand from private citizens. For now, the Trending News India remains focused on the film’s historic run. Audiences continue to flock to theatres, seemingly unbothered by the cross-border noise.