Mumbai Mourns: Baba Siddique Murder Case Raises Questions Over Security and Politics
Baba Siddique, a veteran Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and former Maharashtra minister, was shot dead in Mumbai's Bandra East recently. The incident has sent shockwaves across the country, with widespread condemnations pouring in from various quarters. The police have launched an investigation into the matter and have arrested several people in connection with the case.
A Life of Politics and Power
Baba Siddique, 66, was a three-time MLA from the Vandre West Assembly constituency. He had served as the Minister of State for Food & Civil Supplies and Labour under Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh between 2004 and 2008. Known for his close ties with Bollywood celebrities, Siddique had been a strongman in Mumbai's politics for decades. He began his political career with the Indian National Congress in 1977 and later joined the NCP led by Ajit Pawar in 2024.
Siddique's legacy extended beyond politics. He was a known mediator in Bollywood, often helping to resolve disputes between stars. His annual iftar parties were a hit among Bollywood celebrities, and he was known for his warm hospitality and ability to bring people together.
The Assassination
According to the police, Siddique was shot by three men outside his son's office in Nirmal Nagar on Saturday night. The men allegedly fired six to seven rounds, with two bullets hitting Siddique in the chest and one in the abdomen. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where he was declared dead shortly after arrival.
The investigation has revealed that the attackers had planned the murder meticulously, using photos, pepper spray, and firecrackers to execute the assassination. The police have arrested several people in connection with the case, including Harishkumar Balakram, 23, from Uttar Pradesh, who has been accused of providing funds and support to the attackers.
Reactions and Aftermath
The murder has sparked widespread outrage, with politicians and Bollywood celebrities condemning the incident. Supriya Sule, NCP leader and MP, has questioned the Maharashtra government's ability to provide security for its citizens. Bollywood superstar Salman Khan attended the last rites, while Shah Rukh Khan, who was equally close to Siddique, gave it a miss.
As the investigation continues, the police are looking for a seventh accused in the case. The Mumbai police have so far arrested four people – Dharmaraj Kashyap, Gurmail Singh, Pravin Lonkar, and Harishkumar Balakram – and have detained two others for questioning.
A Bigger Conspiracy?
The murder of Baba Siddique has raised questions over the connection between the underworld and politics. The case has also brought to light the threat issued by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi to Salman Khan, which has sparked a heated debate on the Internet. Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi's speech praising the Bishnoi Community has gone viral, sparking a controversy over the connection between Bollywood and the underworld.
While the investigation continues, the people of Mumbai are mourning the loss of a leader who had dedicated his life to serving the community. As the police search for the remaining accused, the city is left to wonder if the murder was a result of a bigger conspiracy.
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