Baba Siddique, a prominent Indian politician, was murdered in Mumbai, sparking a political blame-game and fears reminiscent of the underworld violence of the 1990s. Three suspects, allegedly linked to the Bishnoi gang, have been arrested. The investigation continues as concerns about state governance and security rise, with uncertainty surrounding the motives behind the assassination.
Outcry in India Following the Murder of Prominent Politician Baba Siddique
Outcry in India Following the Murder of Prominent Politician Baba Siddique
The assassination of Baba Siddique, an influential politician from Maharashtra, raises concerns about law and order and underworld activity in Mumbai.
The assassination of Baba Ziauddin Siddique, an influential political figure in Mumbai, India, has caused widespread concern across the nation. The 66-year-old was shot outside his son's office while entering his car in the bustling Bandra area, later succumbing to his injuries in hospital. The motive for Siddique's murder remains unclear, yet the incident recalls the violent era of the 1990s when Mumbai's underworld frequently targeted politicians and celebrities.
Siddique began his political journey as a youth leader with the Congress party and ascended to become a significant political figure, holding a ministerial position from 2004 to 2008. In February, he switched allegiance to the Nationalist Congress Party, joining forces with partners governing Maharashtra state. Beyond politics, Siddique was recognized for his extravagant iftar parties that drew Bollywood elites, famously resolving a longstanding feud between actors Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan.
The assailants reportedly fired multiple rounds, wounding Siddique fatally. Investigators recovered weapons and ammunition from the arrested suspects, linked to a notorious gang led by Lawrence Bishnoi, a figure of controversy despite being incarcerated since 2015. Speculations mount about how Bishnoi's operations continue from prison, especially as his gang's name surfaced in similar high-profile crimes, including an attempt on actor Salman Khan's life.
This murder marks the first of a politician in Mumbai since the chaotic days of the 1990s. Reportedly, Siddique had received threats, leading to enhanced security—allegedly hindered by a "smoke firecracker" during the attack. The incident has put Maharashtra's governing coalition under scrutiny, especially with upcoming state elections. Political leaders blame a lapse in law and order while the state's Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, vows accountability, emphasizing protection for those at risk.
The haunting echoes of past underworld violence and the recent rise in such attacks have reignited debate over safety and governance in the region, with ongoing investigations hoping to uncover the true motives behind Siddique's murder.
Siddique began his political journey as a youth leader with the Congress party and ascended to become a significant political figure, holding a ministerial position from 2004 to 2008. In February, he switched allegiance to the Nationalist Congress Party, joining forces with partners governing Maharashtra state. Beyond politics, Siddique was recognized for his extravagant iftar parties that drew Bollywood elites, famously resolving a longstanding feud between actors Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan.
The assailants reportedly fired multiple rounds, wounding Siddique fatally. Investigators recovered weapons and ammunition from the arrested suspects, linked to a notorious gang led by Lawrence Bishnoi, a figure of controversy despite being incarcerated since 2015. Speculations mount about how Bishnoi's operations continue from prison, especially as his gang's name surfaced in similar high-profile crimes, including an attempt on actor Salman Khan's life.
This murder marks the first of a politician in Mumbai since the chaotic days of the 1990s. Reportedly, Siddique had received threats, leading to enhanced security—allegedly hindered by a "smoke firecracker" during the attack. The incident has put Maharashtra's governing coalition under scrutiny, especially with upcoming state elections. Political leaders blame a lapse in law and order while the state's Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, vows accountability, emphasizing protection for those at risk.
The haunting echoes of past underworld violence and the recent rise in such attacks have reignited debate over safety and governance in the region, with ongoing investigations hoping to uncover the true motives behind Siddique's murder.
