Bollywood-Connected Indian Politician Killed in Mumbai Ahead of State Election
A prominent politician in Mumbai, India’s financial hub, and known for his close connections to Bollywood, was fatally shot just weeks before a critical state election.
Baba Siddique, 66, was shot multiple times outside his son’s office in Mumbai on Saturday night, police stated. He later succumbed to his injuries at Lilavati Hospital in the city.
Siddique was affiliated with the Indian National Congress party for a considerable period but had recently joined a regional party that governs Maharashtra state. He was also close to numerous Bollywood stars and known for hosting extravagant parties.
Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, who hails from the same political party as Siddique, expressed shock at the killing.
“The incident will be thoroughly investigated, and severe action will be taken against the assailants. The mastermind behind the attack will also be tracked down,” Pawar said in a statement.
Press Trust of India, a news agency, reported that two suspects associated with the attack had been apprehended, and the police were actively searching for another individual involved.
Broadcaster NDTV reported that the two suspects claimed they were part of a criminal organization that has been responsible for multiple killings in the past.
Elections in Maharashtra state are anticipated to take place in November.