NCP Leader Baba Siddique Shot Dead in Mumbai: Investigation Underway

On a tragic Saturday evening, Baba Siddique, a senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and former Maharashtra Minister, was shot dead in Mumbai. The incident occurred near the Bandra Kherwadi Signal, outside the office of his son, Zeeshan Siddique. Baba Siddique sustained three gunshot wounds and was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The shocking event has sent ripples across Maharashtra’s political landscape.

According to the police, three unidentified assailants, with their faces covered by handkerchiefs, emerged from a car and fired six rounds at Siddique, three of which struck him. His associate also sustained a gunshot wound to the leg. The assailants fled the scene, prompting a swift response from the Mumbai Crime Branch, who have since apprehended two suspects, while one is still at large. The attack is being treated as a serious case, with the police stating that one of the suspects is from Haryana and another from Uttar Pradesh.

Baba Siddique, who had recently joined the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP after years with the Congress, was a well-known political figure in Maharashtra. He had served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Bandra West for three terms and had significant influence in the region. Earlier in the day, he had left his office around 9:15 p.m. when the assailants ambushed him as he was amidst Diwali celebrations.

The murder has sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns over the safety of political figures in Mumbai. Reacting to the incident, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde assured that strict action would be taken against the culprits. He stated that he had discussed the matter with the Police Commissioner and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.

The incident has also drawn a sharp reaction from the Shiv Sena (UBT). Party spokesperson Anand Dubey questioned the government’s ability to protect its leaders and demanded the resignation of Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Dubey argued that if senior leaders and former ministers could not be kept safe in the city, it raised serious concerns about the general public’s safety.

The killing of Baba Siddique has not only left a void in Maharashtra politics but has also drawn the attention of Bollywood, with actor Salman Khan reportedly visiting Lilavati Hospital following Siddique’s death. The two shared a close friendship, further highlighting the loss felt by those in political and entertainment circles alike.

As investigations continue, the authorities are exploring all angles, including any potential political motives behind the murder. The government has pledged to enhance security measures and strengthen law enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future.