Maharashtra Opposition Slams Government Over Baba Siddique’s Murder, Questions Law And Order

The shocking murder of NCP leader and former minister Baba Siddique has sparked an outcry from opposition parties in Maharashtra, who have called it a "shameful" incident that reflects a decline in law and order.

Siddique, 66, was fatally shot by three assailants outside the office of his son, MLA Zeeshan Siddique, in Mumbai's Bandra area on October 12. Despite being rushed to Lilavati Hospital, he was declared dead upon arrival.

Photo Credit: PTI

NCP (SP) state president Jayant Patil criticized the ruling government, questioning the safety of the common citizen if even an ally leader is vulnerable. Patil referenced other recent incidents, including a BJP MLA firing a weapon in a police station and a former corporator being killed during a Facebook live session, to highlight what he described as growing lawlessness in Maharashtra. "Gang wars in Pune are becoming routine, and atrocities against women are rising. Law and order in the state has reached its lowest," Patil stated.

The Congress has demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, asserting that the government has failed to ensure safety. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his grief over Siddique's death and urged the government to conduct a transparent investigation, emphasizing that "justice must be ensured, and accountability is paramount." Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala claimed there was "complete anarchy in Mumbai" and echoed calls for Shinde's resignation.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi also raised concerns, questioning whether any law and order remains in Mumbai. "If a protected person meets such a fate, how can the common people feel safe?" she asked. With state assembly elections approaching, the incident has put further pressure on the Maharashtra government to address public concerns and take immediate action to improve security across the state.