Mumbai, October 12: Baba Siddique, a senior leader from the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP and a former Maharashtra minister, was tragically shot dead by unidentified assailants in Bandra, Mumbai. The incident took place near Nirmal Nagar, close to Colgate Ground, outside the office of his MLA son, Zeeshan Siddique.
According to an official report by PTI, multiple rounds were fired at the scene. Police teams swiftly arrived and further investigations are underway. Siddique was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where doctors confirmed his death.
This tragic event occurred just ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections, intensifying the political atmosphere in the state.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, while addressing the media, stated that Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar informed him of two suspects being arrested. The arrested individuals are reportedly from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, while a third suspect remains at large.
Opposition parties have criticized the government, calling for accountability in the wake of this shocking murder. The news of Baba Siddique’s death has spread like wildfire across the country, causing widespread outrage.
Adding to the complexity of the case, there are reports suggesting that this deadly attack on Baba Siddique may be linked to the recent shooting incident outside Bollywood actor Salman Khan’s residence. Baba Siddique was the first person to visit Salman Khan’s home after shots were fired there, raising questions about whether these incidents are connected.
In a fresh update, it has been reported that actor Sanjay Dutt has also arrived at the hospital, following news that Salman Khan himself has now reached the hospital to pay his respects. The attackers fired three shots at Siddique, two of which hit him in the abdomen. He was taken to Lilavati Hospital, where doctors confirmed his demise.
Baba Siddique, who had recently joined the NCP in February after leaving the Congress, was a three-time MLA, serving in 1999, 2004, and 2009. During his tenure, he held the position of Minister of State for Food and Civil Supplies, Labour, and FDA (2004-08). Siddique was known as a highly respected figure, not only in Maharashtra but across India.
Siddique’s Iftar gatherings were a prominent annual event that attracted people from all religions, including many well-known personalities from the film industry. His Iftar parties symbolized communal harmony and unity, and they became an iconic representation of his social influence.
Siddique is survived by his wife Shehzeen Siddique, daughter Dr. Arshia Siddique, and son Zeeshan Siddique.
In a heartfelt tweet, the Mumbai Congress expressed their sorrow over Siddique’s passing, stating, “His tireless service to the people and dedication to the community will always be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. May his soul rest in peace.”
Police have launched an official investigation, and further updates are expected as the case unfolds. We will continue to keep you informed as more information becomes available.
