The recent murder of Baba Siddiqui, a former Maharashtra minister and prominent leader of Ajit Pawar’s faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), has sparked widespread discussions. Siddiqui was shot by contract killers in Bandra on October 12, 2024, a crime that sent shockwaves through political and social circles. Despite the high-profile nature of the case, it is critical to recognize that this incident does not reflect a failure of law and order in Maharashtra.
Context of the Murder
Siddiqui was shot outside his son Zeeshan Siddiqui’s office during a Durga Visarjan procession, with firecrackers masking the sound of the gunfire. His assailants, Gurmail Singh and Dharmaraj Kashyap, were arrested shortly after, with a third suspect still at large. Investigations reveal the shooters were part of Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang, notorious for contract killings. The killers were reportedly paid ₹50,000 each, and police suspect long-standing business rivalries or slum rehabilitation projects as potential motives.
Investigation and Security Measures
The police acted swiftly, apprehending two suspects within hours of the crime. Siddiqui’s assailants were tracked to their rented accommodation in Mumbai, where they had been living for two months while planning the attack. Authorities also recovered the murder weapon and revealed that the crime was meticulously planned, with the killers receiving firearms through courier services days before the incident. The prompt action and ongoing search for the third suspect underscore the police’s commitment to maintaining security and delivering justice
Maharashtra’s Law and Order
While political opposition has used the incident to question the state’s law enforcement, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde condemned the act and assured a thorough investigation. The state’s quick response and the measures taken to arrest key suspects reflect the robustness of its security apparatus. Moreover, this is the first high-profile political murder in Mumbai in three decades, which shows that such incidents are rare and not indicative of widespread lawlessness.
The narrative that this single event signifies a breakdown of law and order is not grounded in reality. Instead, it is crucial to focus on the state’s ability to respond rapidly, arrest suspects, and commit to transparent investigations. Law enforcement agencies have demonstrated their effectiveness in handling high-stakes crimes, ensuring the safety of citizens and political figures alike.
In conclusion, while the murder of Baba Siddiqui is tragic, it should not be construed as a broader failure of governance in Maharashtra. The authorities’ swift actions and commitment to justice highlight their capability to manage complex criminal cases and maintain law and order effectively.
