Sun Oct 13 02:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Former Mumbai MLA Baba Siddiqui Shot Dead in Mumbai: Contract Killing Suspected
**MUMBAI:** The murder of Baba Siddiqui, a former MLA from Bandra and NCP leader, has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra and Bollywood. He was shot dead on Friday night outside his son’s office while lighting firecrackers.
Two assailants, Gurmail Baljit Singh (Haryana) and Dharmaraj Rajesh Kashyap (UP), have been arrested. According to police, Siddiqui was involved in a slum rehabilitation project which had drawn the attention of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) due to alleged irregularities.
Investigations suggest the killing may be a contract hit related to this project. Police have confirmed that the assailants conducted reconnaissance prior to the attack and were paid in advance. The weapons used were reportedly delivered through a parcel, and another suspect is still at large.
The Delhi Police Special Cell is reportedly on its way to Mumbai to assist with the investigation. The incident is being investigated by the Mumbai Police.
Siddiqui was accused of money laundering and was investigated by the ED in 2018. The agency had attached assets worth ₹462 crore belonging to him.
He served as the Chairman of the Maharashtra Housing Development Authority between 2000 and 2004 and was involved in a slum rehabilitation project that was allegedly marred by corruption. A case was registered in 2014 against him and 150 others based on a complaint filed in 2012.
Siddiqui joined the Congress party in 1977 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a prominent figure in Bandra Taluk by 1980. He was a close associate of veteran Congress leader and actor Sunil Dutt.
He was first elected as an MLA from Bandra West in 1999 and held the seat for three consecutive terms. He also served as a Minister for Labor, Food and Civil Supplies, and FDA in Maharashtra.
Siddiqui was a popular figure in Bollywood and had strong connections in the film industry. He is also credited with mediating a truce between Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan during a famous feud.
The death of Baba Siddiqui, a prominent figure in Mumbai’s political and social circles, has sent shockwaves across the city. The investigation into his murder is ongoing.
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