Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Sunday urged everyone to refrain from politicizing the tragic killing of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddique. In a message shared on X, Pawar emphasized the importance of compassion during this difficult time and warned against using the tragedy for political gain.
Pawar expressed deep sorrow over the death of Siddique, noting that the NCP is struggling to cope with the loss of a beloved leader. “This is not just a political loss; it’s a deeply personal tragedy that has shaken us all,” said Pawar. He added that he has lost a dear friend whom he had known for years, making the tragedy all the more painful.
Ajit Pawar strongly urged people to avoid exploiting the tragedy for political advantage. “I strongly urge everyone to resist the temptation to politicize this horrifying event,” he said, stressing that the focus should be on ensuring justice is served. Pawar vowed that those responsible for the crime would be held accountable.
Pawar also called for unity and respect during the mourning period, asking people to show compassion rather than allow opportunistic voices to turn the tragedy into a political spectacle. “This is a time for mourning and for remembering a leader who was deeply cherished by so many,” he added.
Ajit Pawar met with Baba Siddique’s son, Zeeshan Siddique, at Cooper Hospital to express his condolences. Earlier, he informed the public that five investigation teams had been formed and dispatched to different states to probe the killing. Pawar mentioned that the identity of those responsible for the attack would be known within 2-3 days.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that Baba Siddique would be cremated with full state honours, in recognition of his service as a minister in the Maharashtra government from 2004 to 2008 and as the chairman of the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA).
The Mumbai Crime Branch has registered a case at Nirmal Nagar Police Station under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Arms Act, and the Maharashtra Police Act in connection with the murder. Siddique was shot near Nirmal Nagar in Bandra on Saturday and succumbed to his injuries at Lilavati Hospital later that night. The case is now under investigation, with authorities working to bring those responsible to justice.
