close
close

topicnews · October 13, 2024

‘Appalling’: Leaders condemn Baba Siddique’s murder | Latest News India

‘Appalling’: Leaders condemn Baba Siddique’s murder | Latest News India

Political leaders from across the country condemned the assassination of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique by three unidentified assailants outside his son Zeeshan Siddiqui’s office near Colgate grounds in Nirmal on Saturday evening Nagar in Mumbai was shot dead.

Baba Siddique. (PTI file photo)

The attackers fired two to three shots at Siddique. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that two suspects had been arrested in connection with the shooting. “This is an extremely unfortunate incident. The accused are from UP and Haryana. The third accused is absconding,” he said.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said: “This horrific incident reveals the complete breakdown of law and order in Maharashtra. “The government must take responsibility and justice must prevail.”

NCP (SP) leader Sharad Pawar said, “The collapsed law and order situation in the state is a matter of concern. The shooting of former state minister Baba Siddiqui in Mumbai, the country’s financial capital, is unfortunate. If the Interior Minister and those in power continue to administer the state so leniently, it can be an alarm signal for the common people.”

He added, “There is a need not only to investigate this but also to take responsibility and step down from the position of rulers.” Pawar also paid heartfelt tributes to Siddique and expressed his condolences to his family.

Asaduddin Owaisi, president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), said: “Really devastating news of two deaths on the same day. The murder of Baba Siddique is highly condemnable. It reflects the deteriorating state of law and order in Maharashtra. May Allah grant him Maghfirah. My condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues.”

Owaisi also drew attention to Professor Saibaba’s death, saying: “His death was also partly a result of the UAPA, which allows police to keep you in prison for long periods of time without evidence.”

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar described the killing as a “cowardly attack” and said he was “shocked” over his colleague’s death. “The incident of shooting at NCP leader and former state minister, my colleague Baba Siddiqui, is very unfortunate, condemnable and painful. I was shocked to learn that he died in this incident. I have lost a good colleague and friend,” Pawar said.

“The mastermind of the attack is being investigated. With the death of Baba Siddiqui, we have lost a good leader who fought for the minority brothers and strived for pan-religious harmony. His death is a great loss for NCP,” he added while condoling with Siddique’s son Zeeshan and her family.

Karnataka Deputy CM and Congress President DK Shivakumar said, “The tragic demise of former Maharashtra Minister Shri Baba Siddique today has shocked and deeply saddened me.” My deepest condolences and prayers go out to his son Zeeshan Siddique, his family members and supporters. I hope that this incident will be fully investigated to catch the perpetrators of this heinous crime and bring justice.”

Senior Congressman KC Venugopal said, “Shocked, stunned and outraged by the murder of Baba Siddique ji.” Siddique ji served the people with dedication and worked hard to maintain harmony in the community. His death is a great loss for the people of Mumbai and Maharashtra. This incident is a serious indictment of the crumbling law and order situation in Maharashtra.”

Venugopal further said that Siddique had previously warned authorities about threats to his life despite being under Y-Plus security. “The fact that this shooting took place on the streets in the middle of busy markets shows that criminals in Maharashtra are no longer afraid of the law.” Even the leaders of the ruling alliance are no longer safe in the heart of their capital. The ruling regime must answer: If high-ranking public figures are not safe, how will ordinary citizens feel safe today?”

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan said, “The news of the assassination of my close friend, former minister Baba Siddiqui, is very shocking and tragic. We worked together in the legislature and in the cabinet. His leadership was connected to the people and universally recognized in all societies. I have lost a good, dashing friend due to Baba Siddiqui’s untimely death. I am deeply saddened by his sudden death. It is with a heavy heart that I express my appreciation to him.”

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed his condolences and said, “The tragic demise of former Maharashtra Minister Shri Baba Siddique is shocking beyond words.” In this hour of grief, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and supporters. Justice must be served and the current government of Maharashtra must order a thorough and transparent investigation. The perpetrators must be brought to book at the earliest. Accountability is paramount.”

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said, “I pray to God to give the deceased a high place in heaven and give patience and courage to the family.” What name would you give to such criminal incidents that are constantly happening in Maharashtra under the NDA rule happen?”