Content Warning: The following article contains graphic details of violence and murder that may be distressing for some readers
It was a dark and tragic day when Maharashtra’s former minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, Baba Siddique, fell victim to a brutal attack. The assailant’s bullets found their mark in Siddique’s stomach and chest, leaving him fighting for his life. Despite being rushed to the Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, the political stalwart could not overcome his grievous injuries and passed away.
The harrowing incident took place inside his son Zeeshan Siddique’s office in Bandra, Mumbai, as reported by ANI. The news of the attack sent shockwaves through the community, with Siddique’s condition described as critical upon arrival at the hospital. The echoes of two to three gunshots fired at him around 9:30 pm reverberated through the night. In the aftermath, two individuals were apprehended in connection with the shooting, as per NDTV reports.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde wasted no time in ensuring that justice would be served. Confirming the detention of two suspects, he disclosed that one hailed from Uttar Pradesh, while the other had roots in Haryana. "Two people have been arrested, one from Uttar Pradesh and one from Haryana, while another is on the run," Shinde asserted, urging the Mumbai police to act decisively.
Amidst the chaos and tragedy, NCP National spokesperson Brijmohan Shrivastav mourned the loss of Baba Siddique. Recalling the fateful moment when Siddique was targeted, Shrivastav expressed his dismay, "He was fired upon by some people between 9 to 10 pm today. He was shot in the stomach. As per the information, the doctors have declared him dead." The ongoing police investigation and recent arrests offered a glimmer of hope for answers and closure in the face of such senseless violence.
In the wake of the attack, familiar faces from the entertainment industry, such as Sanjay Dutt and Salman Khan, rushed to the hospital to stand in solidarity with Siddique’s grieving family. Despite security concerns, Salman Khan made a poignant gesture by leaving his Bigg Boss 18 shoot midway to pay his respects. The camaraderie between Siddique and Bollywood luminaries, including Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, shone through in their shared history of attending his renowned Iftar parties in Mumbai.
As we grapple with the aftermath of this tragic loss, let us remember to support those in need and seek help for ourselves or others facing similar challenges. Reach out to mental health specialists, NGOs, or helplines for assistance in times of crisis. Let us stand together in solidarity and compassion during these trying times.