Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the attack on former Maharashtra minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Ziauddin Siddique, who was shot and killed near his office in Mumbai on Saturday evening. The 66-year-old politician was ambushed by three assailants who fired multiple rounds, hitting him in the stomach and chest. He was quickly taken to Lilavati Hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries.
The shooting occurred around 9:30 PM near Ram Mandir, as Siddique was lighting firecrackers for Dussehra celebrations. Eyewitnesses reported that three men, their faces covered with handkerchiefs, emerged from a vehicle and opened fire with a 9mm pistol, with one bullet striking Siddique in the chest, causing him to collapse immediately.
Local bystanders rushed him to the hospital, but despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead.
Mumbai police have arrested two suspects in connection with the attack—one from Uttar Pradesh and the other from Haryana—while a third suspect remains at large. Authorities are actively pursuing leads to apprehend him. Reports indicate that an image of one of the arrested suspects has been obtained, although the identity of the third suspect is still unknown.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde condemned the attack and promised swift action against those responsible, stating, “Two accused have been arrested, and one suspect is still at large. No one can take the law into their own hands.” He emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation by the Mumbai police.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who canceled all his engagements upon hearing the news, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of his colleague. “I lost a good colleague and a good friend,” he said. “The incident will be thoroughly investigated, and strict action will be taken against the attackers. We will also trace the mastermind behind this attack. With Baba Siddique’s passing, we have lost a leader who fought for minority rights and promoted inter-religious harmony.”
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited Lilavati Hospital to pay his respects, and the police investigation continues to track down the remaining suspect.
