Congress Criticises Deteriorating Law and Order in Maharashtra Following Baba Siddique's Killing

The Congress has expressed grave concerns over the murder of Nationalist Congress Party leader Baba Siddique, highlighting it as a significant failure in Maharashtra's law and order. The party has called for a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the incident. Baba Siddique, a former minister in Maharashtra, was shot dead by three individuals in Mumbai's Bandra area. Officials have confirmed that two of the attackers have been apprehended.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge shared his shock over Siddique's death, describing it as "shocking beyond words." He extended his heartfelt condolences to Siddique's family, friends, and supporters during this difficult time. Kharge emphasised the need for justice and urged the current Maharashtra government to ensure a thorough investigation. "The culprits must be brought to book at the earliest. Accountability is paramount," he stated.

Concerns Over Law and Order

K C Venugopal, Congress general secretary in-charge of organisation, expressed his outrage over Siddique's killing. He highlighted Siddique's dedication to serving people and maintaining communal harmony. Venugopal remarked that Siddique's death is a significant loss for Mumbai and Maharashtra. He criticised the deteriorating law and order situation in Maharashtra, noting that Siddique had previously informed authorities about threats to his life despite having Y-plus security.

Venugopal pointed out that the attack occurred in a busy market area, indicating criminals' lack of fear of the law in Maharashtra. He questioned the safety of ordinary citizens when even leaders of the ruling alliance are not secure in the state's capital. "The ruling regime must answer - when senior public figures aren't safe, how will the ordinary citizen feel safe today?" Venugopal asked.

Personal Loss and Public Reaction

Pawan Khera, head of Congress media and publicity department, expressed his shock at Siddique's murder on social media. He recalled meeting Siddique for the first time in 1999 with Sunil Dutt and described Siddique's death as a personal loss. Baba Siddique, aged 66, was taken to Lilavati Hospital but succumbed to his injuries. The attack occurred outside his MLA son Zeeshan Siddique's office near Colgate ground in Nirmal Nagar, Bandra East.

Siddique had represented Bandra West three times in the assembly and was a prominent Muslim leader from Mumbai. He was also known for his connections with several Bollywood stars. The incident has raised questions about security measures for public figures in Maharashtra.

The tragic event has sparked widespread concern about safety and governance in Maharashtra ahead of upcoming assembly elections next month. The opposition continues to question the state's ability to protect its citizens and leaders effectively.