Mumbai, India — Recent political violence has gripped Mumbai following the shocking assassination of Baba Siddique, a prominent Maharashtra politician, outside his son’s office in Bandra on October 12. Siddique, formerly affiliated with the Congress party before joining the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), was widely respected for his electoral influence and notable social gatherings, including his celebrity-attended iftar parties.
Following the tragic incident, Zeeshan Siddique, a Congress MLA and the son of the deceased, expressed his sorrow and hinted at betrayal in a veiled message on social media, describing his father as a “lion” slain by “jackals” through deceit. This metaphor underscores the complex interplay of fear and power within the political landscape where his father operated.
The assailants, suspected to be associated with the criminal network led by the incarcerated gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, executed the fatal attack. The police’s preliminary investigations suggest that the murder could be linked to internal political rivalries, although no definitive motive has been established.
Baba Siddique’s influence extended beyond politics into the cultural realms of Mumbai, often showcased through his iftar gatherings that were a staple among Bollywood’s elite, including Salman Khan. Some speculate that Siddique’s high-profile connections might have indirectly contributed to his untimely demise. Khan, along with other luminaries from the entertainment industry, paid their respects at Siddique’s funeral, highlighting the crossover between Mumbai’s film industry and its political sphere.
In the days following the murder, Mumbai Police have intensified their efforts, resulting in the arrest of nine individuals connected to the case. This includes capturing two of the three direct assailants. Insights from the investigation revealed a potentially larger target list, evidenced by the discovery of Zeeshan Siddique’s photo on one of the assailant’s phones, hinting at broader threats within political circles.
This murder has stirred discussions about the safety of public figures and the persistent shadow of organized crime over Indian politics. Experts are calling for more stringent security measures for elected officials, especially in regions prone to political violence. Through this tragic event, the vulnerability of politicians who navigate complex networks of allies and adversaries has become painfully evident.
Moreover, Siddique’s death raises questions about the effectiveness of current law enforcement strategies to combat gang-related activities and political interference. These issues are particularly pressing in Maharashtra, a state with a notorious history of such conflicts.
As the community mourns, there is a palpable desire for justice and a closer examination of the intertwining of crime and politics, with a hope that such a high-profile case will not only lead to convictions but also drive systemic changes to curb the influence of organized crime in Indian politics.