Baba Siddique Assassination Shakes Indian Politics

The recent assassination of Baba Siddique, a prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of India. Siddique was tragically shot dead on Saturday, October 13, outside his son MLA Zeeshan Siddique's residence in Bandra, Mumbai. This incident marks a grim chapter in the ongoing issues of political violence and targeted killings in the region.

According to reports, the shooters had made over ten previous attempts to assassinate Baba Siddique before finally succeeding. A senior police officer revealed that these earlier attempts were thwarted for various reasons. Sometimes, Siddique did not appear at the expected location, while on other occasions, the shooters were deterred by the presence of his numerous supporters. This highlights the challenges faced by those intending to carry out such heinous acts.

In a strategic move, the shooters were directed to execute their plan near Siddique's son's office in Kherwadi, an area known for its openness, which would allow for easier access and escape. The Mumbai Police have made significant progress in the investigation, arresting four individuals connected to the case. Among them is 24-year-old Harishkumar Nishad, who was apprehended in Kaisarganj, Uttar Pradesh, and is currently in police custody until October 21.

Other suspects, including Gurmail Singh, Dharamraj Kashyap, and Praveen Lonkar, a milk dairy owner, were arrested earlier in the investigation. Notably, Lonkar's brother, Shubham Lonkar, remains at large, with reports suggesting a connection between Siddique's murder and the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang. This connection raises serious concerns about the influence of organized crime in political matters.

Harish Kumar Nishad, who previously operated a scrap shop in Pune, played a crucial role in the assassination plot. He was reportedly given ₹60,000 by Praveen Lonkar to purchase a secondhand bike, which was then used by the shooters to track Baba Siddique. This bike was ridden from Pune to Mumbai, demonstrating the lengths to which these individuals went to carry out their plan.

Furthermore, the Mumbai Police disclosed that the assassination plan was conceived in Pune approximately three months prior to the execution. This revelation underscores the premeditated nature of the crime and raises questions about the security measures in place for public figures.

The assassination of Baba Siddique serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by political leaders in India. It highlights the urgent need for enhanced security protocols and a comprehensive approach to combat organized crime and political violence. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for authorities to ensure that justice is served and that such tragic events do not become a recurring theme in the political arena.