-By TeamNewsHour
Mumbai, once known for its vibrant political culture intertwined with Bollywood glamour, was shaken by the brutal murder of Baba Siddiqui, a former three-time MLA from Bandra West and a prominent figure in the Ajit Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Siddiqui, aged 66, was gunned down in a chilling act of violence near his son’s office in Bandra East, Mumbai, on the night of October 12, 2024. This assassination has not only reignited discussions about law and order in Mumbai but also spotlighted the dark underbelly where political rivalries meet organized crime.
The Murder and Its Immediate Aftermath
Baba Siddiqui, known for his close ties with Bollywood stars like Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, was shot multiple times, with at least four bullets hitting him in the chest, leading to his death shortly after the incident. The attack, which occurred around 9.30 PM, was carried out by three assailants, who reportedly waited for Siddiqui in an auto rickshaw before executing their plan. The Mumbai Police, in their swift response, managed to arrest two suspects within hours, revealing a chilling connection to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, notorious for their criminal activities across several states.
The Connection to Lawrence Bishnoi
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang, previously in the news for threats against Bollywood actor Salman Khan, has now been linked directly to Siddiqui’s murder. Bishnoi, currently incarcerated, has been a figure of interest due to his gang’s involvement in high-profile cases, including the assassination of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala. The gang’s motive in targeting Siddiqui could be multifaceted, ranging from political rivalry to settling scores through associates of Salman Khan, whom the gang has openly threatened before.
Identification of the Fourth Accused
The investigation took a crucial turn with the identification of the fourth accused, Mohammad Zeeshan Akhtar. His identification was announced by the Mumbai Police, marking a significant breakthrough in the case. Zeeshan Akhtar remains at large, with police operations underway to apprehend him. His involvement adds another layer of complexity to the case, suggesting perhaps a personal vendetta or deeper criminal connections yet to be uncovered.
Political Repercussions and Public Reaction
The murder of Baba Siddiqui has not only sparked a political slugfest but also raised serious concerns about the security of public figures in Mumbai. Politicians across the spectrum have condemned the attack, with leaders like Ajit Pawar expressing shock and promising a thorough investigation. The incident has led to a broader debate on the state of law and order in Mumbai, with some questioning the effectiveness of security measures for politicians and high-profile individuals.
Baba Siddiqui’s Legacy
Baba Siddiqui’s life was marked by his political journey from the Bandra Youth Congress to becoming a significant voice in Maharashtra politics. His role in reconciling Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan at an Iftar party in 2013 is often cited as a testament to his influence beyond politics, into the realms of Bollywood. His murder, therefore, resonates not just as a political assassination but as the loss of a bridge between different worlds of Mumbai’s societal fabric.
The Broader Implications
This incident, occurring weeks before key state elections, underscores the volatile mix of politics, crime, and public life in Mumbai. It serves as a grim reminder of the city’s history with political violence, harking back to the days when gang warfare influenced political outcomes. The involvement of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang suggests a resurgence of such dynamics, where criminal elements feel empowered enough to target high-profile figures, potentially influencing political narratives.
Conclusion
The murder of Baba Siddiqui and the subsequent identification of Mohammad Zeeshan Akhtar as the fourth accused have plunged Mumbai into a reflective mood about its safety, political culture, and the intertwining of its underworld with political life. As the police continue their hunt for Zeeshan Akhtar and delve deeper into the motives behind this assassination, Mumbai watches with bated breath, hoping for justice and a return to the peace that this city of dreams so desperately needs. This case, unfolding against the backdrop of Mumbai’s complex socio-political landscape, will undoubtedly be watched closely, not just for its immediate outcomes but for its long-term implications on the city’s political environment.
