Baba Siddique, former Maharashtra minister and senior leader of the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), was shot and killed by unidentified attackers in Mumbai’s Bandra East on Saturday. The 62-year-old politician was immediately rushed to Lilavati Hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving.
The shooting occurred outside the office of Siddique's son, Zeeshan Siddique, who is a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), near the Colgate Ground in Nirmal Nagar. According to the Mumbai Police, two to three rounds of gunfire were heard. Siddique, who had recently received death threats, was under ‘Y’ category security at the time of the attack.
The police have launched an investigation and formed five teams to look into the case. Officials are also examining whether a possible connection exists with the Bishnoi gang, a notorious group involved in various criminal activities, according to News18.
Arrests Made, One Suspect Still at Large
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed that two suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing—one from Haryana and another from Uttar Pradesh. A third suspect remains at large, but police expect to apprehend him soon. Shinde assured the public that the case will be fast-tracked through the courts to ensure swift justice.
Baba Siddique’s Political Career
Baba Siddique was a well-known figure in Maharashtra politics. He served as an MLA for three consecutive terms in 1999, 2004, and 2009. During his time in office, he held the position of Minister of State for Food & Civil Supplies, Labour, and FDA.
Earlier this year, in February, Siddique resigned from the Indian National Congress (INC) and joined the NCP under Ajit Pawar. Popularly known as "Bandra Boy," he was also known for his close friendship with Bollywood actors Sanjay Dutt and Salman Khan.
Political Reactions and Condolences
The killing of Baba Siddique has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political circles. Both ruling and opposition party leaders have expressed their grief over the incident. However, opposition leaders were quick to criticise the government, blaming the deteriorating law and order situation in the state.
BJP leader Kirit Somaiya demanded a thorough investigation, calling the murder part of a larger conspiracy. “The government should form a special team and investigate this. It seems to be a huge conspiracy. Strict action should be taken,” Somaiya said.
Clyde Crasto, spokesperson for the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), expressed his concern over the state of law and order, particularly blaming the government for its failure to maintain control. He said, “People are taking the law into their own hands because there is no fear of consequences. The Home Department, led by Devendra Fadnavis, has failed.”
Congress Mumbai Unit President Varsha Eknath Gaikwad also expressed shock, saying, “Shocked and numbed to hear about the firing at Shri Baba Siddique ji. How can this happen? At a loss for words.”
Aam Aadmi Party leader Preeti Sharma Menon also voiced her outrage, stating, “If an ex-minister can be killed in Bandra, what hope do citizens have? Under Devendra Fadnavis, Mumbai has become totally lawless.”
