Mumbai: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique, aged 66, was shot dead by three men in Mumbai's Bandra East on Saturday. Two suspects have been arrested, while the third is on the run. The incident has raised serious concerns over the law and order situation in Maharashtra, especially with the upcoming assembly elections next month.

The attack and aftermath
Siddique was attacked outside his son Zeeshan Siddiqui's MLA office near Colgate Ground, Nirmal Nagar. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Mumbai Police confirmed that two of the alleged shooters have been arrested—one from Uttar Pradesh and the other from Haryana—while a third suspect fled the scene.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, in his statement, said Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar briefed him about the arrests. "A full investigation is underway, and the remaining accused will be apprehended soon," Shinde assured.

Opposition reactions
Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar expressed shock at Siddique’s death, describing the attack as "extremely unfortunate and condemnable." Pawar, who had considered Siddique a close friend and colleague, said, "We have lost a leader who fought for the minority community and championed secularism."

Senior NCP leader Sharad Pawar criticised the ruling party, particularly Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis, over the deteriorating law and order situation. "This incident is proof that the administration is being handled too lightly," he stated, calling for Fadnavis to take responsibility and resign.

Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat also questioned how a leader with Y-category security was killed so brazenly, emphasising the need for stronger governance. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray echoed these concerns, calling the murder "shocking" and a reflection of the "complete collapse of law and order" in the state.

Political and personal tributes
Siddique, a well-known figure in Mumbai politics, had represented the Bandra (West) constituency three times and was respected for his secular stance. He had only recently joined the Ajit Pawar-led NCP. His influence extended beyond politics, being close to several Bollywood stars.

BJP leader Ashok Chavan, who had worked with Siddique in the Congress, called the news "shocking" and said it was hard to believe. Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, in charge of Maharashtra affairs, expressed his sadness, recalling his friendship with Siddique from their Youth Congress days.

NCP working president Praful Patel, who was a close friend of Siddique, said he was "at a loss for words" over the tragedy.

PTI