Death Threat Against Yogi Adityanath Shocks Mumbai Police

Mumbai Traffic Police are investigating a serious death threat against Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, delivered via a WhatsApp message to a police helpline. The message threatened that Adityanath would meet a violent end similar to that of Baba Siddique, a former Maharashtra minister and prominent Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, if he did not resign within ten days. Siddique was recently assassinated in Mumbai’s Bandra neighborhood, and this death threat against Adityanath raises serious concerns around the security of public officials in India.

The message, sent from an unknown number, demanded Yogi Adityanath step down as the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, specifically stating that he would be “killed like Baba Siddique” if he failed to comply. Authorities are actively working to trace the origins of the message, examining both the sender’s number and the device used. This recent threat follows a string of similar warnings directed at Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, who has also received multiple death threats over recent months. In response, police have elevated security for Adityanath, Khan, and other high-profile figures across the region.

Baba Siddique’s Assassination and Ongoing Investigation

The reference to Baba Siddique’s tragic killing has intensified the gravity of this new threat. Siddique, a well-known politician with deep roots in Maharashtra’s political landscape, was reportedly shot by assailants in broad daylight while walking near his home in Bandra. This targeted attack involved multiple shooters, with initial investigations revealing that Siddique may have been embroiled in a financial dispute that escalated to violence. Mumbai Police have apprehended several suspects tied to the murder, including a local scrap dealer believed to be connected to the killers. According to sources, CCTV footage captured the incident, which has become crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation.

Following Siddique’s death, political and community leaders across Maharashtra voiced their concerns, urging the government to enhance security measures for politicians, especially those holding or formerly holding public office. The case has remained a top priority for law enforcement, and the new threat against Yogi Adityanath has further intensified focus on high-profile security risks within Maharashtra.

Threats Against Public Figures: A Growing Concern in India

This threat against Yogi Adityanath is not isolated. Over recent months, several Indian celebrities, business moguls, and political leaders have received similar death threats, often via digital platforms like WhatsApp and social media. Salman Khan, for instance, has been the subject of multiple threats, allegedly linked to organized crime networks. As a result, Mumbai Police have tightened his security, and a special team is monitoring his movements to prevent any potential attacks.

These incidents underscore a disturbing trend where public figures in India are increasingly vulnerable to organized crime and intimidation. Experts suggest that rising digital surveillance, cyber threats, and unchecked criminal activities have contributed to a heightened sense of danger. The digital nature of these threats allows criminals to hide their identities, making it challenging for law enforcement to apprehend those responsible promptly.

Mumbai Police Response and Security Measures

Following the receipt of the threat against Yogi Adityanath, Mumbai Police promptly initiated a high-level investigation. Officers from the cybercrime unit are working to analyze the message’s digital footprint and trace the IP address associated with the unknown number. Meanwhile, security arrangements for the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister have been bolstered, and the Maharashtra government is coordinating with Uttar Pradesh officials to address any emerging threats comprehensively.

Enhanced security measures are also in place across key locations in Mumbai and Maharashtra. Mumbai Police Commissioner recently announced that officers would remain vigilant in high-risk areas, especially near the residences and offices of political leaders. Special teams have been deployed to patrol areas around both Siddique’s and Khan’s residences as a precautionary step to prevent any further incidents.

Political and Public Reactions

The threat against Yogi Adityanath has sparked reactions across the political spectrum, with leaders emphasizing the importance of protecting public officials and maintaining law and order. Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister has publicly condemned the threat, calling it a “cowardly attempt” to intimidate and disrupt governance. Other politicians have echoed these sentiments, demanding a thorough investigation and expressing support for Adityanath.

Public figures and celebrities who have previously faced similar threats, such as Salman Khan, have also spoken out about the mental and emotional toll of living under constant security surveillance. Khan recently shared his concerns about the need for increased vigilance among public figures and urged the public to support law enforcement efforts in countering such threats.

Heightened Security and Collaborative Efforts

Given the growing frequency of threats against public figures, law enforcement agencies across India are exploring measures to strengthen security protocols. The central government, alongside state authorities, is now considering enhanced digital tracking capabilities and improved coordination between states to manage risks. Security experts have suggested that law enforcement could benefit from adopting advanced tracking technologies, which would enable them to respond to threats more swiftly and accurately.

The Mumbai Police are currently working alongside the Uttar Pradesh Police to secure areas around Adityanath’s expected visit sites and residence. This cross-state coordination is crucial, as high-profile political figures often travel extensively for official duties, raising the risk of exposure.

Ongoing Efforts to Address Organized Crime Threats

The involvement of organized crime groups in issuing threats to public figures is a complex issue that India has been grappling with for years. In many cases, these threats are driven by underlying financial or political motives, with perpetrators using intimidation tactics to manipulate or silence influential individuals. Law enforcement agencies have taken significant strides in recent years to counter these organized networks, launching initiatives to dismantle criminal syndicates and increase penalties for cyber and digital crimes.

As investigations into both the Yogi Adityanath and Siddique cases continue, authorities are working to identify potential links between the individuals issuing these threats and any larger organized crime entities operating in Maharashtra or Uttar Pradesh. High-profile cases such as these underscore the pressing need for continuous vigilance and cross-jurisdictional efforts to keep public figures safe from harm.

Conclusion

The threat against Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, mirroring the recent tragic assassination of Baba Siddique, has put India’s security apparatus on high alert. With prominent figures like Salman Khan also under threat, the safety concerns surrounding public figures in India are more relevant than ever. The police response has so far been swift and comprehensive, but these incidents call for longer-term strategies to ensure that public officials and celebrities can carry out their roles without fear of retribution or violence.

As Mumbai Police continue their investigation, there is a collective call for justice, with citizens, politicians, and security experts united in their demand for accountability and safety. The unfolding developments in both the Siddique case and the ongoing threats highlight the resilience of law enforcement and the critical need for vigilance across India’s security landscape​

Hindustan Times