Former Maharashtra minister and senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddique has tragically passed away after being shot outside his son’s office in Bandra East, Mumbai. The 66-year-old leader was rushed to Lilavati Hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
Baba Siddique had a long and eventful political career. He joined the Congress Party as a teenager and spent 48 years with them before making a significant shift in February 2024. Disillusioned with his treatment in the party, Siddique remarked, “I was treated like curry leaves—used and discarded.” He joined Ajit Pawar’s faction of the NCP, a move that raised many eyebrows.
Siddique’s son, Zeeshan Siddique, is a Congress MLA from Bandra East. However, their political alignment took a turn when Zeeshan was expelled from Congress in August for alleged anti-party activities. Despite their political differences, Zeeshan remains a prominent figure in Mumbai’s political landscape.
The shooting took place on Saturday, when three gunmen fired multiple bullets at Baba Siddique outside Zeeshan’s office in Bandra East. This tragic event follows a similar incident that occurred months ago when shots were fired outside actor Salman Khan’s residence.
Apart from politics, Baba Siddique was widely known for hosting extravagant Iftar parties that drew top Bollywood stars, including Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan. His annual Iftar events became one of the most talked-about gatherings, bridging the gap between politics and the film industry.
Happy #Dussehra Everyone!!!
May this Dussehra bring you all happiness, peace and prosperity ✨ pic.twitter.com/THk9Z4Wi0M— Baba Siddique (@BabaSiddique) October 12, 2024
In his latest post, just days before the incident, Baba Siddique expressed hope for his new political journey with Ajit Pawar’s faction. He emphasized his desire to bring positive change to Maharashtra, stating, “A new chapter begins, and I am ready to serve the people with renewed energy.”
Mumbai Police have taken two individuals into custody who are believed to be related to the shooting. Authorities are continuing their investigation to bring all those involved to justice.
Baba Siddique’s death marks the end of a significant chapter in Maharashtra’s political scene, leaving behind a legacy that intertwines politics, family, and Bollywood glamour.
