File photo of former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique

Mumbai: In a shocking incident on Dasera Day, former Maharashtra minister and Ajit Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction leader Baba Siddique died after being shot by assailants in Mumbai. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital after being hit by bullets in the stomach and chest. He succumbed to his injuries.

Two people have been detained by the police in connection with the attack.

Siddique was shot near his office. The incident occurred between 9:15 and 9:20 pm near the Ram Mandir, close to the NCP leader's office, as he was bursting firecrackers on Dussehra.

As Siddique was bursting firecrackers, three assailants emerged from a vehicle, their faces covered with handkerchiefs. Without warning, they opened fire, discharging three rounds, one of which struck Siddiqui in the chest, causing him to collapse on the spot.

Following the attack, bystanders rushed Siddique to Lilavati Hospital.

As soon as authorities were alerted, police rushed to the scene. Two individuals have since been detained, with one hailing from Uttar Pradesh and the other from Haryana. A third suspect is still on the run, and efforts are underway to catch him.

Responding to the attack, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has pledged strict action against those responsible for the attack on the NCP leader. "Two accused have been arrested, and one suspect is still at large. No one can take law and order into their own hands," Shinde said.

Chief Minister Shinde added that he has directed Mumbai Police to ensure swift action in arresting the remaining suspect and bringing the culprits to justice.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar cancelled all his scheduled programmes for Sunday, and he will return to Mumbai at midnight. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reached the Lilavati hospital.

Deputy CM and NCP President Ajit Pawar has expressed his condolences over the passing of senior party leader Baba Siddique. In a social media post, Mr. Ajit Pawar said the incident of firing on NCP leader, former Minister of State and his colleague Baba Siddiqui who has been an MLA for a long time is very unfortunate, condemnable and painful. Condemning the attack, he said the incident will be thoroughly investigated and strict action will be taken against the attackers. He ensured that the masterminds behind the attack will be held accountable. Pawar noted that Baba Siddique’s death is a significant loss for the party, “we have lost a good leader who fought for the minority brothers and strived for pan-religious harmony”, added Ajit Pawar. 

Senior leaders of the party including NCP working President Praful Patel and NCP State President Sunil Tatkare have also expressed grief over the demise of Baba Siddique.