In a terrifying incident that has rocked Mumbai, Baba Siddique, a former Maharashtra minister and senior leader of the Ajit Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), was shot multiple times by unidentified assailants on October 12, 2024. The attack occurred in the bustling Bandra East area, near Kherwadi junction, a location known for its significant political and commercial activity. Baba Siddique was at his son Zeeshan Siddique’s office at the time of the shooting.
The Incident Unfolds
Eyewitnesses reported that three men, riding on motorcycles, pulled up near the office and fired several rounds at Siddique. The attackers reportedly fled the scene immediately after the shooting. Baba Siddique was hit by three bullets and collapsed at the scene, critically injured. His son Zeeshan, the current MLA from Bandra East, was present but escaped harm. Zeeshan Siddique, who has gained prominence as a young and dynamic politician in Maharashtra, was reportedly shaken by the incident but managed to coordinate the emergency response to get his father to Lilavati Hospital.
Siddique’s Political Background
Baba Siddique has been a significant figure in Maharashtra politics for decades, having served multiple terms as an MLA from Bandra West. His political journey, which began with the Congress party, later transitioned to the NCP, where he became an influential member of the Ajit Pawar-led faction. Siddique is known for his deep-rooted connections with both local and state-level politics, as well as his extensive work in the development of his constituency.
Despite stepping away from the frontlines of active politics, Baba Siddique continued to wield considerable influence, especially through his son Zeeshan, who is regarded as a rising star in Maharashtra’s political arena. The Siddique family’s stronghold in the Bandra region and their political clout have made them both respected and, in some circles, controversial figures.
Political Fallout and Speculations
The motive behind the attack is still unclear, but the brazen nature of the shooting has sparked widespread speculation. Some political commentators have suggested that the attack could be related to the intense factionalism currently gripping Maharashtra’s political landscape, especially within the NCP. The party, split between Sharad Pawar’s and Ajit Pawar’s camps, has seen increasing tensions over control of key constituencies and political resources.
While no direct link has been established, Baba Siddique’s strong support for Ajit Pawar’s faction, which recently entered into a power-sharing agreement with the BJP in the state, could be a factor in the attack. Maharashtra police, however, have not yet commented on whether this was politically motivated or a personal vendetta.
Law enforcement agencies have launched a full-scale investigation, and police are reviewing CCTV footage from the area in an attempt to identify the shooters. A senior police official stated, “We are leaving no stone unturned in our investigation and are hopeful that we will apprehend the perpetrators soon.”
Public and Political Reactions
News of the attack sent shockwaves through Mumbai’s political circles, with many politicians across party lines condemning the violence. Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and leader of Siddique’s faction, expressed shock and dismay, stating, “This is a heinous act of violence against a respected leader. We will ensure that justice is served and the culprits are brought to book.”
Zeeshan Siddique also issued a brief statement from the hospital, where his father is currently undergoing treatment. “Our family is devastated by this attack, but we have full faith in the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation. We ask for privacy at this critical time,” he said.
On social media, there has been an outpouring of support and prayers for Baba Siddique’s recovery. Many residents of Bandra, who have long supported the Siddique family, expressed shock at the violent turn of events in their otherwise peaceful neighborhood.
Siddique’s Legacy
Baba Siddique is perhaps best known for his annual Iftar parties, which have drawn the who’s who of Bollywood and politics. These gatherings have been widely covered by the media for their star-studded guest lists, often bringing together individuals from different walks of life and bridging political divides. Over the years, Siddique’s influence extended beyond just politics; he became a social figure, well-known in Mumbai’s high-society circles.
A Critical Situation
As of now, Siddique remains in critical condition at Lilavati Hospital. Doctors have indicated that while they are doing everything they can, his condition remains precarious due to the severity of the injuries. “The next 48 hours are crucial,” one of the doctors treating him commented, underlining the gravity of the situation.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has assured that the government will take all necessary steps to investigate the attack and ensure the safety of political leaders in the state. Additional security measures have already been implemented for prominent politicians, especially those involved in the current NCP power tussle.
Conclusion
The shooting of Baba Siddique in Mumbai has sent shockwaves across the state, raising concerns about political violence in Maharashtra. While the investigation is still ongoing, the attack has prompted intense speculation about its motive, with many wondering if it could be linked to the state’s turbulent political environment. As the city prays for Siddique’s recovery, the incident stands as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by public figures in volatile political climates
Comments 2