On October 12, 2024, a shocking event unfolded in Mumbai. Baba Siddique, a well-known politician and former MLA, was shot dead outside his son Zeeshan Siddique's office in Bandra. The attack happened around 9:30 PM, just as the city was celebrating the festival of Dussehra. Firecrackers were bursting in the area, which the attackers used as cover for their crime. This tragic incident has sent shockwaves across India and raised serious questions about safety and law enforcement in the region.
Baba Siddique was a prominent figure in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and had served as a minister in Maharashtra. His murder is believed to be linked to ongoing power struggles involving criminal gangs in Mumbai. The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has claimed responsibility for the attack. This gang is notorious for its violent activities and has been involved in several high-profile crimes in recent years.
The attackers approached Baba Siddique as he was getting into his vehicle. They fired multiple shots, hitting him in the chest. Despite being rushed to Lilavati Hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The police quickly apprehended two of the assailants, while a third remains at large. The suspects are said to have been surveilling the area for weeks before executing their plan.
In the wake of this tragedy, self-proclaimed film critic Kamaal R. Khan, known as KRK, made controversial remarks on social media. He stated that Baba Siddique "died a dog's death" and implied that his murder was a form of karmic justice for his alleged past wrongdoings. KRK's comments have sparked outrage online, with many people finding them insensitive given the circumstances of Siddique's death.
KRK's post read: "Jaisi Karni Waisi Bharni. Na Jaane Kitne Logon Ki Property Par Zabardasti Kabza Kiya Huwa Tha. Kutte Ki Maut Mara! Aaj Un Sab Majloom Logon Ko Sukoon Mila Hoga!" This translates to: "As you sow, so shall you reap. Who knows how many people's properties he forcefully grabbed? He died a dog's death! Today, all those oppressed people must be at peace." His words suggest that he believes Siddique's death was deserved due to his alleged involvement in illegal activities.
The backlash against KRK was swift. Many accused him of celebrating a man's death rather than showing compassion for his family and community. In response to the criticism, KRK claimed that his post was misunderstood and that he was referring to a different context altogether.
Baba Siddique's political career was marked by controversy. He had faced accusations of forcibly grabbing properties from people over the years. Reports suggest that he had connections with underworld figures like Dawood Ibrahim and had been threatened by criminal gangs in the past. In 2013, he received threats from the D Company, which demanded he vacate certain properties.
The police have launched an extensive investigation into Siddique's murder. They are looking into possible motives behind the killing and exploring connections between the assailants and organized crime groups in Mumbai. The investigation is crucial not only for bringing justice but also for restoring public confidence in law enforcement.
The murder has raised concerns about political stability in Maharashtra as assembly elections are approaching. Many fear that this incident could lead to increased violence and unrest during the election period. Political leaders from various parties have expressed their condolences and called for swift action against those responsible for the crime.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has promised strict action against the attackers and has vowed to ensure that law and order is maintained in the state. He emphasized that no one should take the law into their own hands and that justice will be served.
In conclusion, Baba Siddique's murder is not just a tragic loss for his family but also a significant event that highlights ongoing issues related to crime and politics in India. The reactions from public figures like KRK show how complex and sensitive such situations can be. As investigations continue, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact Maharashtra's political landscape and public safety moving forward.