Mumbai: In a shocking development late Saturday night, Baba Siddikji, a prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Ajit faction, was shot and killed in Mumbai’s Bandra East. Siddikji, a significant figure in Maharashtra politics, was rushed to Lilavati Hospital following the attack, where he was pronounced dead. Reports indicate that he was hit by two to three bullets, including a fatal shot to his chest.
Baba Siddikji was not only a towering presence in the political landscape but also maintained deep connections within Bollywood. He was known for his close friendships with major film stars like Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. These relationships extended beyond mere camaraderie, as Siddikji played a pivotal role in mending the longstanding rift between the two megastars.
Political Career and Assassination Details
Siddikji had recently made headlines by switching allegiance from the Indian National Congress to the NCP Ajit group just months before his untimely death. A seasoned politician, he served three terms as a Congress MLA and held the position of Minister for Bandra West. His defection to the NCP in February followed internal disputes within the Congress party. Tragically, only a few months after joining the NCP, Siddikji became the target of a deadly attack.
Following the assassination, police authorities apprehended two individuals suspected to be involved in the shooting. These suspects are believed to be the assailants, and interrogations are currently underway to uncover further details about the motive and execution of the attack.
Bridging Bollywood and Politics
Beyond his political endeavors, Baba Siddikji was renowned for his influential role in Bollywood. His strong friendships with actors Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan were well-known, and it was Siddikji who orchestrated the reconciliation between the two stars after years of discord.
The feud between Salman and Shah Rukh reportedly began in 2008 during a party hosted by Siddikji, where a disagreement led to a heated argument between the actors. The exact cause of their fallout remains unclear, as no definitive reason has emerged. Despite their falling out, there was a period when both stars avoided attending the same events, reflecting the severity of their estrangement.
However, in 2013, Siddikji organized an iftar party that brought both Salman and Shah Rukh together. For the first time since their dispute, the two actors were seen embracing warmly at the event, signaling the end of their feud. This reconciliation marked a significant moment in Bollywood, restoring their friendship and collaborative spirit.
Shiv Sena Condemns the Attack
In the aftermath of the assassination, Anand Dubey, a leader from Shiv Sena UBT, expressed his outrage over the incident. Dubey highlighted the broader implications for public safety, stating, “If former ministers and sitting MLAs are not safe in Mumbai, what assurance can the government provide to the common man? If you cannot protect your MLA and former minister, then Devendra Fadnavis, you should resign. Eknath Shinde has no right to remain as the Chief Minister.”
A Community in Mourning
The political and entertainment communities in Mumbai and across Maharashtra are mourning the loss of Baba Siddikji. His contributions to both politics and Bollywood have left an indelible mark, and his untimely death raises concerns about the safety of public figures in the region. As investigations continue, there is a collective call for enhanced security measures to protect leaders who play crucial roles in bridging diverse sectors.
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