NCP Leader Baba Siddique Shot Dead in Mumbai, CM Shinde Announces State Funeral, Police Probe Lawrence Bishnoi Gang Links

Former Maharashtra minister and senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddique was shot dead in Mumbai on Saturday, sparking a political storm in the state. The incident has raised serious concerns over the law and order situation, with opposition leaders questioning the government's ability to maintain safety.

Siddique, who had strong ties with Bollywood actor Salman Khan, was reportedly targeted by three assailants. According to the initial police investigation, the assailants aimed to establish influence in Mumbai by orchestrating the high-profile killing. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced a state funeral for Siddique and confirmed that two of the suspects have been arrested.

Arrest and Investigation

The police have arrested two men in connection with the murder—Gurmail Singh (23) from Haryana and Dharamraj Kashyap (19) from Uttar Pradesh. The duo allegedly conducted a recce of Siddique’s residence and office for the past two months. Investigators have also uncovered possible links to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, though there is no official confirmation yet. A third suspect is still at large, and a manhunt is underway.

The accused were reportedly living in Mumbai for several months and received an arms delivery just days before the attack. Mumbai Crime Branch officials have been interrogating them intensively since the arrest.

Political Reactions

NCP President and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar expressed shock and condemned the killing, calling it "unfortunate, condemnable, and painful." Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who holds the home portfolio, visited Lilavati Hospital following the incident.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray criticized the incident, calling it a "complete collapse of law and order." His party colleague Priyanka Chaturvedi questioned the effectiveness of the administration, asking if there is any law and order left in Mumbai.

Congress-turned-BJP leader Ashok Chavan, who had worked with Siddique during their time in the Congress, expressed shock at the news.

Call for an Unbiased Probe

Siddique’s family has demanded an impartial investigation into the killing. A relative, Ahmed, called for the formation of a special committee to ensure a fair probe and urged the authorities to deliver the strictest punishment to those responsible.

In response, Delhi Police have announced that a special team will be sent to Mumbai to assist in the investigation.

Siddique, a key figure in Ajit Pawar's faction of the NCP, was shot near Nirmal Nagar in Bandra and later succumbed to his injuries at Lilavati Hospital. His mortal remains were brought to his Mumbai residence after a post-mortem at Cooper Hospital.