“Painful”: Maharashtra DyCM Ajit Pawar condemns killing of NCP leader Baba Siddique

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 13 (ANI): Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Saturday expressed shock over the killing of former minister and NCP leader Baba Siddique, and strongly condemned the attack.

Taking to X, Ajit Pawar said, “The incident of firing on NCP leader, former Minister of State, my colleague Baba Siddiqui who has been in the Legislature for a long time is very unfortunate, condemnable and painful. I was shocked to know that he died in this incident. I have lost my good colleague, friend. I strongly condemn this cowardly attack. I offer my heartfelt tributes to Baba Siddiqui.”

He vowed that strict action would be taken against the attackers and assured a thorough investigation into the killing of the NCP leader, terming his death a significant loss for the party.

“The incident will be thoroughly investigated and strict action will be taken against the attackers. The mastermind behind the attack will also be traced. With the demise 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 big loss for NCP. I share in the grief of Zeeshan Siddiqui, Siddiqui family and their workers,” Pawar added in the post.

BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Chavan called the deceased as a close friend, saying he is deeply saddened.

Taking to X, Ashok Chavan said, “The news of the assassination of my close friend, former minister Baba Siddiqui is very shocking and shocking. We worked together in the legislature. We were together in the cabinet. His leadership was connected with the people and universally accepted in all societies. I have lost a good, dashing friend in Baba Siddiqui’s untimely demise. I am deeply saddened by his sudden passing. It is with a heavy heart that I pay tribute to him. His son Zeeshan Siddiqui and his family find strength to bear this suffering.”

Siddique was shot dead by unidentified attackers in Mumbai on Saturday evening. Siddique, a three-time MLA from Bandra West, had joined Ajit Pawar’s NCP earlier in February this year after resigning from the Congress.

Mumbai Additional CP Paramjit Singh Dahiya confirmed the arrest of two suspects.

“The incident occurred around 9:30 pm in Nirmal Nagar. Baba Siddique was taken to Lilavati Hospital after being shot. Two suspects have been arrested, and the Mumbai Crime Branch is investigating the case,” Dahiya told reporters.

Mumbai Police said that they recovered the weapon used in the crime. “A 9.9mm pistol was used in the firing,” officials said.