Sat Oct 12 17:50:00 UTC 2024: ## NCP Leader Baba Siddiqui Shot Dead in Mumbai; Suspected Contract Killing

**Mumbai, India:** Veteran NCP leader Baba Siddiqui was shot dead late on Saturday night in Mumbai’s Bandra East. He was reportedly attacked while visiting his son’s office. The incident has sent shockwaves through the political circles and sparked a wave of condemnation.

Siddiqui, who had joined the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) in February this year after spending 48 years with the Congress, was rushed to Lilavati Hospital in critical condition with multiple gunshot wounds to the chest and abdomen. He succumbed to his injuries despite medical intervention.

Following the incident, Mumbai Police swiftly arrested two suspects and are investigating the possibility of a contract killing. A third suspect remains at large.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed deep condolences and promised strict action against the culprits. He assured the public that the law enforcement is taking the matter seriously and has instructed the Mumbai Police to conduct a thorough investigation. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also visited the hospital.

Siddiqui, a three-time MLA from Bandra West, had a long and illustrious political career. He had served as a Minister of State in Maharashtra and was known for his close ties to Bollywood personalities. His association with Salman Khan and his role in bringing about a reconciliation between Salman and Shah Rukh Khan were particularly noteworthy.

However, Siddiqui had also faced legal trouble in recent years. In 2017, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had raided his premises in connection with an alleged slum rehabilitation scheme (SRA) scam. In 2018, the ED attached assets worth ₹462 crores belonging to Siddiqui, alleging money laundering.

The shocking murder of the prominent political figure has left the state in a state of grief and raised concerns over the safety of public figures. Police are working to apprehend the remaining suspect and bring the perpetrators to justice.

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