Former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique dies after being shot in Mumbai

Former Maharashtra minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Ziauddin Siddique was shot and killed near his office in Mumbai on Saturday evening. The 66-year-old politician was attacked by three men, who fired multiple rounds, striking him in the stomach and chest. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The incident took place around 9:30 pm near Ram Mandir, close to Siddique’s office. Eyewitnesses said that Siddique was lighting firecrackers for Dussehra celebrations when three assailants, their faces covered with handkerchiefs, emerged from a vehicle and opened fire using a 9.9mm pistol. One of the bullets struck Siddique in the chest, causing him to collapse on the spot.

Local bystanders quickly rushed Siddique to the hospital, but despite efforts by medical staff, he was declared dead.

Mumbai police arrested two suspects in connection with the attack, one hailing from Uttar Pradesh and the other from Haryana. A third suspect remains at large, and police are actively pursuing leads to apprehend him. According to India Today, an image of one of the arrested individuals has been obtained, though the identity of the third man is still unknown.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde condemned the attack, promising swift and strict action against those responsible. "Two accused have been arrested, and one suspect is still at large. No one can take law and order into their own hands," Shinde said, adding that he had instructed the Mumbai police to ensure a thorough investigation.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who cancelled all of his engagements following the news, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his colleague. “I lost a good colleague and a good friend," Pawar said. "The incident will be thoroughly investigated, and strict action will be taken against the attackers. The mastermind behind the attack will also be traced. With the demise of Baba Siddique, we have lost a good leader who fought for the minority brothers and strived for pan-religious harmony."

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited Lilavati Hospital to pay his respects, and a police investigation is ongoing to track down the remaining suspect.