Mumbai: In a tragic incident in Maharashtra, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddikji was fatally shot in Mumbai’s Bandra East. Siddikji was rushed to Lilavati Hospital amidst widespread media coverage, where he succumbed to his injuries. Reports indicate that he sustained two to three gunshot wounds, including a fatal shot to his chest. Lilavati Hospital has officially confirmed Siddikji’s death.
Siddikji had recently switched allegiance from the Indian National Congress to the NCP, joining Ajit Pawar’s faction just months before his untimely demise. 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 conflicts within the Congress party. Shortly after his transition, Siddikji was targeted and killed in a pre-election attack.
Following the incident, police detained two individuals suspected to be involved in the shooting. Authorities believe these suspects may be the shooters and are currently interrogating them to gather more information.
The assassination took place near the office of Siddikji’s son, Geeshan, who is the current MLA for Bandra East. Witnesses reported that Siddikji was returning from his son’s office when assailants opened fire, discharging three rounds that hit him in the chest.
Earlier this year, Siddikji publicly stated upon joining the NCP, “I am an open book, a man of lineage. I do not wish to malign anyone. Perception politics is prevalent, which is why I have left the Congress.” His comments reflected his intent to pursue a straightforward political path, free from factional disputes.
In response to the assassination, Shiv Sena UBT leader Anand Dubey condemned the incident, highlighting concerns over the safety of former ministers and current legislators. “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,” Dubey stated.
The political community in Mumbai and across Maharashtra mourns the loss of Baba Siddikji, whose career spanned significant roles within both the Congress and NCP parties. Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to bring those responsible for this act of violence to justice.
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