A wave of shock and anger swept through Mumbai on Saturday night as news broke of the tragic death of former Maharashtra Minister and senior NCP leader Baba Siddique. He was shot dead by three men in Bandra East, sending ripples of fear and concern across the city.
The incident unfolded on Saturday night, when three men, armed with firearms, targeted Siddique. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Two of the assailants have been apprehended by Mumbai Police, identified as residents of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. The third assailant, however, managed to flee the scene and is currently being actively pursued by law enforcement.
The news of Siddique’s murder sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Maharashtra. Leaders across the political spectrum condemned the incident, highlighting the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his condolences and assured the public that strict action would be taken against those responsible. He emphasized that the Mumbai Police had been instructed to apprehend the third accused as swiftly as possible.
Opposition leaders also expressed their dismay and outrage over the incident, using it as an opportunity to criticize the Shinde-Fadnavis government’s handling of law and order in the state. Shiv Sena UBT leader and Worli MLA Aaditya Thackeray termed the incident a complete collapse of administration and law and order, while Congress leader Atul L Patil pointed to a disturbing pattern of violence in Maharashtra, suggesting a possible political conspiracy behind the incident.
NCP President and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar described the attack as “extremely unfortunate and condemnable,” lamenting the loss of a close friend and colleague. He acknowledged Siddique’s dedication to the minority community and his commitment to secularism. Pawar assured that a thorough investigation into the attack would be conducted.
While the investigation into Siddique’s murder continues, the incident has cast a dark shadow over Mumbai and raised serious concerns about the safety and security of citizens in the city. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for a comprehensive and effective law and order framework, ensuring the protection of every citizen.
