Former Minister Baba Siddique Fatally Shot in Mumbai

Baba Siddique, a prominent Indian politician, was shot dead in Mumbai amidst heightened security. Two individuals have been arrested, though their motives remain undisclosed.

A shocking incident unfolded in Mumbai as 66-year-old former minister Baba Siddique was gunned down near his son's office. Siddique, who recently shifted allegiance from Congress to the National Congress Party (NCP), was a respected figure in Maharashtra politics. The state, set for legislative elections next month, is reeling from the murder. The brazen attack, occurring despite city-wide heightened security for a Hindu festival, has triggered severe criticism from opposition parties regarding potential security lapses. Although two suspects have been detained, police continue to search for a third individual. There are unconfirmed reports linking the suspects to an organized crime network, headed by jailed criminal Lawrence Bishnoi. Siddique's security was recently heightened following threats, raising questions about the circumstances of his assassination. Maharashtra's deputy chief minister, Ajit Pawar, condemned the act as cowardly, and the state government is now under pressure to conduct a comprehensive inquiry. The political and entertainment fraternities, including Siddique’s close Bollywood connections, are shaken by the incident.