NCP Leader Baba Siddiqui Fatally Shot in Mumbai; Two Arrested in Connection with Incident

Former Maharashtra minister and NCP leader Baba Siddique was fatally shot by three individuals in Mumbai's Bandra East area on Saturday night, according to officials. The incident occurred outside the office of his MLA son, Zeeshan Siddiqui, near Colgate ground in Nirmal Nagar. Two suspects were apprehended immediately after the shooting.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated that Mumbai police commissioner Vivek Phansalkar informed him about the arrest of two alleged shooters. One suspect is from Uttar Pradesh and the other from Haryana, while a third suspect managed to escape. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also oversees the home department, visited Lilavati Hospital where Siddique was admitted.

Reactions from Political Leaders

Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar expressed his shock and grief over the incident on X, describing it as "extremely unfortunate and condemnable." He mourned the loss of a friend and colleague who advocated for minority rights and secularism. Pawar assured that a comprehensive investigation would be conducted into the attack.

NCP working president Praful Patel, a close associate of Siddique, expressed his inability to articulate his feelings over the loss. Congress-turned-BJP leader Ashok Chavan recalled working with Siddique during their time in Congress, expressing shock at the news. Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala also shared his deep sorrow over losing a dear friend from his Youth Congress days.

Concerns Over Law and Order

The incident has raised concerns about law and order in Maharashtra. Opposition leaders criticised the state government for the security lapse. Former state home minister Anil Deshmukh and Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar condemned the Eknath Shinde administration for failing to prevent such an attack. They highlighted that Siddique had Y category security, making his assassination particularly alarming.

NCP SP leader Sharad Pawar voiced worries about the deteriorating law and order situation in Maharashtra. Leaders across party lines have expressed condolences for Siddique's death, with some questioning the state's ability to maintain public safety.

Siddique, who had served as an MLA three times, recently joined the NCP after leaving Congress. His death has prompted widespread mourning among political circles, with many remembering his contributions to public service.