40 Facts About Baba Siddique

Early Life and Political Beginnings

Baba Siddique's journey from a small town in Bihar to the bustling political scene of Mumbai is nothing short of remarkable. His early life laid the foundation for his future in politics.

1. Early Life and Background: Born in Bihar, India, Baba Siddique's early years remain largely undocumented. However, his rise to prominence in Mumbai is well-documented.

2. Political Career: Siddique's political journey began in 1977 when he joined the Indian National Congress party. He started with the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) and later moved to the Youth Congress.

3. Municipal Councillor: In 1992, Siddique was elected as a municipal councillor in Mumbai, marking the start of his local political career.

4. MLA for Bandra West: By 1999, Siddique had become the MLA for the Bandra West constituency. He was re-elected in 2004 and 2009, serving multiple terms.

5. Ministerial Positions: During his tenure as MLA, Siddique held several ministerial positions in the Maharashtra government, including roles in food and civil supplies, labour, and consumer protection.

6. Switch to NCP: Earlier this year, Siddique switched from the Congress party to the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), led by Ajit Pawar, a significant move in Maharashtra's political landscape.

Luxurious Lifestyle and Wealth

Baba Siddique was known for his opulent lifestyle, which often made headlines. His wealth and assets were a testament to his success and influence.

7. Luxurious Lifestyle: Siddique's net worth was estimated to be around Rs 76 crore, according to his election affidavit. However, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) seized properties valued at Rs 462 crore, linked to allegations of corruption and money laundering.

8. Assets and Wealth: His assets included cash, bank deposits, and investments in various companies. He had a particular fondness for luxury cars, owning a Mercedes-Benz among others.

9. Jewelry Collection: Siddique's collection of gold and diamond jewelry was estimated to be worth around Rs 30 crore, reflecting his taste for luxury.

Family and Personal Life

Baba Siddique's personal life was as vibrant as his political career. His family played a significant role in his life and legacy.

10. Family and Personal Life: Siddique was married to Shehzeen Siddique. The couple had two children: daughter Arshia Siddique and son Zeeshan Siddiqui, who is also involved in politics.

11. Bollywood Connections: Known for his close relationships with numerous Bollywood stars, Siddique often hosted extravagant events featuring prominent celebrities.

Tragic End and Investigation

The shocking murder of Baba Siddique has left a void in Mumbai's political and social scene. The investigation into his death continues to unfold.

12. Murder and Investigation: On October 12, 2024, Siddique was shot multiple times outside his son's office in Mumbai. He later succumbed to his injuries at Lilavati Hospital. The Mumbai police are investigating the case, with two suspects already in custody.

13. Law and Order Concerns: The murder has raised concerns about law and order in Mumbai. Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde has vowed strict action against those responsible.

14. Political Reactions: Ajit Pawar, the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, expressed his disbelief and condemnation of the attack. Several opposition leaders have also voiced their concerns over the collapse of law and order in Maharashtra.

15. Security Upgrades: Despite receiving death threats earlier this year, Siddique's security detail was upgraded only recently, highlighting ongoing challenges in ensuring safety for public figures.

Election Context and Gang Involvement

The timing of Siddique's murder has significant implications for the upcoming state election in Maharashtra. The involvement of organized crime adds another layer of complexity.

16. Election Context: The murder occurred just weeks ahead of an important state election in Maharashtra, sparking political debates about the government's ability to ensure safety during elections.

17. Lawrence Bishnoi Gang: The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has been implicated in the murder. The gang is known for its involvement in several high-profile homicide cases.

18. Detained Suspects: The two detained suspects claimed affiliation with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. They are currently in custody, awaiting further investigation.

19. Third Suspect: The third suspect is still at large and believed to be involved in the murder. The Mumbai police are actively pursuing this individual.

Public Reaction and Legacy

The public's reaction to Siddique's murder has been one of shock and concern. His legacy in politics and beyond continues to be a topic of discussion.

20. Public Reaction: Many have expressed their grief and disappointment over the loss of a prominent figure in Mumbai's political and social scene.

21. Legacy in Politics: Siddique's legacy in politics is complex. Known for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, his tenure was also marred by allegations of corruption.

22. Role in Slum Rehabilitation Schemes: Siddique was involved in slum rehabilitation schemes, which have been plagued by corruption allegations. The ED's seizure of properties linked to these schemes highlights his involvement.

23. Bollywood Events: Famous for hosting extravagant events featuring Bollywood stars, these gatherings were platforms for networking and building relationships within the industry.

24. Social Impact: Beyond politics, Siddique had a significant social impact, known for his charitable work and ability to bring people together through various initiatives.

Business Ventures and Luxury

Siddique's business ventures and love for luxury were well-known. His investments and assets reflected his diverse interests and success.

25. Business Ventures: In addition to his political and social activities, Siddique was involved in various business ventures, adding to his net worth.

26. Luxury Cars Collection: His collection of luxury cars, including a Mercedes-Benz, was a testament to his love for the finer things in life.

27. Jewelry Collection: His jewelry collection, estimated to be worth around Rs 30 crore, included gold and diamond pieces, reflecting his taste for luxury.

Family Involvement in Politics

The Siddique family's involvement in politics highlights the legacy that Baba Siddique has left behind.

28. Family Involvement in Politics: His son, Zeeshan Siddiqui, is also involved in politics, continuing the family's political legacy.

29. Bollywood Connections and Events: Siddique's connections to Bollywood were not limited to hosting events. He was known for his close relationships with several Bollywood stars.

Security Threats and Election Impact

The murder of Baba Siddique has significant implications for the upcoming state election in Maharashtra and raises concerns about security for public figures.

30. Security Threats: Despite receiving death threats earlier this year, Siddique's security detail was upgraded only recently, highlighting ongoing challenges in ensuring safety.

31. Election Impact: The murder has significant implications for the upcoming state election in Maharashtra, sparking political debates about the government's ability to ensure safety.

Law and Order Situation in Mumbai

The murder of Baba Siddique has raised concerns about the law and order situation in Mumbai, a city with a history of organized crime.

32. Law and Order Situation: The murder has raised concerns about the law and order situation in Mumbai, once known for its safety.

33. Historical Context of Organized Crime in Mumbai: The city's history with organized crime dates back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, with the rise of the underworld in the 1990s.

34. Shootout at Swati Building: One of the earliest clashes between the Mumbai police and the underworld was the Shootout in Swati building in 1991, immortalized on screen in 'Shootout at Lokhandwala.'

35. Gulshan Kumar Assassination: In 1997, music mogul Gulshan Kumar was brutally murdered, highlighting the extent of organized crime in Mumbai.

36. MCOCA and Its Impact: The Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) introduced in 1998 helped clear the city's streets of underworld activities.

Bollywood's Response to Gang Violence

The constant threats to Bollywood stars by organized crime gangs have reignited fears among city dwellers and the film industry.

37. Bollywood's Response to Gang Violence: The constant threats to Bollywood superstar Salman Khan by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang have reignited fears among city dwellers.

38. Public Perception of Gang Violence: The public perception of gang violence in Mumbai has changed over the years, becoming a significant concern for law enforcement and citizens.

39. Role of Mumbai Police: The Mumbai police have been at the forefront of tackling gang violence, with their efforts instrumental in reducing the influence of organized crime.

40. Impact on Film Industry: The rise and fall of organized crime in Mumbai have had a significant impact on the film industry, changing the way films are funded and produced.

Baba Siddique's Lasting Impact

Baba Siddique's life was a whirlwind of politics, luxury, and Bollywood connections. His journey from a municipal councillor to a prominent MLA in Bandra West showcased his political prowess. Known for his luxurious lifestyle, his assets included luxury cars and a vast jewelry collection. His murder on October 12, 2024, outside his son's office in Mumbai, shocked many and raised concerns about law and order in the city. The involvement of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang in his murder has further highlighted the ongoing challenges of organized crime in Mumbai. Despite allegations of corruption and money laundering, Siddique's legacy in politics and his social impact remain significant. His close ties with Bollywood and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life have left a lasting impression on Mumbai's social and cultural landscape.