Baba Siddique: The political rise of a Maharashtra strongman

Baba Siddique, a prominent political leader and former three-time MLA from Bandra West, was shot dead in a shocking attack last night in Bandra East. The 66-year-old, known for his influence in Maharashtra politics and his ability to bridge divides between Bollywood’s biggest names, was fatally struck by multiple bullets outside his son Zeeshan Siddique’s office.

Also Read: Two suspects claim Lawrence Bishnoi gang link in killing of ex-minister Baba Siddique

Siddique, born Ziauddin Siddique, carved a prominent path in Mumbai’s political arena. His journey began in 1977 when he joined the Congress party as a teenager. By 1980, Siddique had already risen to a leadership role within the Bandra Taluka Youth Congress, thanks to his political acumen and local support. His early mentorship under veteran Congress leader Sunil Dutt helped him gain a strong foothold in Mumbai’s political circles.

In 1999, Siddique won his first election as an MLA from the Bandra West constituency, a seat he successfully retained for three consecutive terms. His political journey reflected the complex dynamics of Mumbai’s socio-political landscape, with Siddique becoming a vital figure in the city’s development.

The shooting, which occurred around 9:30 pm, came just hours before the Lawrence Bishnoi gang claimed responsibility for the assassination, sparking a wider probe into potential motives and connections.