Baba Siddique Murder: The Role of Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and Political Fallout
On the night of October 12, 2024, former Maharashtra minister and prominent political figure Baba Siddique was shot dead outside his son Zeeshan Siddique’s office in Bandra, Mumbai. This shocking assassination has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Maharashtra, with law enforcement agencies now investigating the involvement of the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The incident is being probed not only for its criminal connections but also for its potential political implications.
A Political Legacy Cut Short
Baba Siddique was a seasoned politician known for his long-standing affiliation with the Indian National Congress (INC) before joining the Ajit Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in 2023. His political career, which spanned several decades, saw him serve three terms as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Bandra (East) constituency. A well-known face in Mumbai’s political circles, Siddique was also recognized for his connections to Bollywood, notably with Salman Khan, a factor that is drawing additional attention to his murder.
Siddique’s killing comes at a time when Maharashtra is gearing up for state elections, adding a layer of political tension to an already volatile situation.
The Assassination and Arrests
The fatal shooting occurred on Dussehra, a night marked by celebration, adding to the tragic nature of the event. According to initial reports, three attackers carried out the attack, two of whom have been arrested. The arrested suspects hail from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, regions that have been under the influence of various criminal gangs. The third assailant is still at large. Police believe that the attackers conducted reconnaissance of Siddique’s residence and office for several weeks, meticulously planning the murder.
Mumbai Police have indicated that the arrested suspects have claimed allegiance to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, although this has not been independently verified. Lawrence Bishnoi, a gangster currently serving time in Gujarat jail, is known for his extensive criminal activities, including his well-publicized threats against Bollywood actor Salman Khan due to the actor’s involvement in the 1998 blackbuck poaching case.
Bishnoi’s Alleged Involvement and Connection to Salman Khan
Lawrence Bishnoi’s name has surfaced in the investigation, with police not ruling out the possibility that the attack was linked to the gang’s ongoing vendettas. Bishnoi’s gang, which operates across several states, has a reputation for high-profile crimes and extortion, making it a prime suspect in this case. Additionally, reports have emerged that Baba Siddique had received death threats just two weeks before his murder, although he did not report these threats to the authorities at the time.
Salman Khan, who has been under the protection of the Maharashtra police due to threats from the Bishnoi gang, is reportedly being scrutinized for any potential connection to the incident. While the police have emphasized that Siddique’s death may not directly relate to Khan, the actor’s security has been tightened once again in the wake of the murder.
Investigations and Motives
As the investigation deepens, two primary motives are being considered by law enforcement agencies. One theory is that Siddique’s involvement in slum rehabilitation schemes may have created powerful enemies, leading to his assassination. The other theory points directly to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and its widespread influence over criminal activities in the region. The Bishnoi gang has become notorious for its involvement in contract killings, extortion, and threats to public figures, including Bollywood personalities.
Mumbai Police are now working with central intelligence agencies to determine the exact motive behind the killing. The involvement of the Bishnoi gang is being thoroughly examined, though questions remain about whether Siddique was specifically targeted for personal reasons or if his murder was part of a broader political or criminal agenda.
The State Funeral and Political Reactions
Following his death, Baba Siddique was granted a state funeral, a gesture that reflects his stature in Maharashtra’s political landscape. Political leaders across party lines, including those from the NCP and the Congress, have expressed shock and sorrow at the loss. Zeeshan Siddique, Baba Siddique’s son and a sitting MLA, expressed deep grief and called for justice for his father’s murder. Many leaders, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, have vowed that no stone will be left unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Rahul Gandhi, former Congress president, also spoke out, condemning the violence and calling for stricter measures to maintain law and order in Maharashtra. Gandhi’s comments have sparked further debate over the safety of political figures in the state, particularly in light of the upcoming elections.
Broader Implications and the Path Forward
The assassination of Baba Siddique has raised serious concerns about law and order in Mumbai, with many pointing to the increasing influence of criminal gangs in political matters. The Bishnoi gang’s alleged involvement in the case highlights the growing nexus between crime and politics, a problem that has plagued Maharashtra in recent years. Political analysts are watching closely to see how this case develops, particularly as it may have repercussions for the upcoming state elections.
While the investigation continues, Siddique’s death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by politicians in India, particularly those involved in contentious issues such as slum rehabilitation and urban development. His murder has left a significant void in Maharashtra politics, and the state’s law enforcement agencies are under pressure to resolve the case swiftly and bring those responsible to justice.
In the meantime, Siddique’s legacy as a dedicated public servant and his strong connections within both political and entertainment circles will be remembered by his supporters and colleagues. As Mumbai mourns the loss of a seasoned leader, the hunt for his killers continues, with the hopes that justice will be served swiftly and decisively.
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