Baba Siddique to be cremated with full State honours, announces CM Eknath Shinde

Following the shocking murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique in Mumbai’s Bandra East, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced that Siddique will be cremated with full state honours. The announcement came on Sunday, October 13, just hours after Siddique, 66, was shot dead by three assailants. Siddique was a respected figure in Maharashtra politics, having served as a three-time MLA and state minister in the Congress-led government.

Siddique, who held the post of Minister of State between 2004 and 2008, played a key role in various departments and was also the President of MHADA (Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority). His political career, spanning several decades, made him an influential figure, particularly in the Bandra region. The state honours are a tribute to his contributions in public service and political leadership over the years.

The Chief Minister’s office released an official statement confirming the state funeral, with CM Shinde emphasizing that Siddique’s legacy and work for Maharashtra will be duly respected. Officials have been instructed to ensure all arrangements are made for the state funeral, which will see participation from several high-profile political leaders and prominent figures in the state.

Siddique’s son, Zeeshan Siddique, who is also an MLA, shared the funeral details on social media, expressing deep sorrow over his father’s sudden death. The Namaz-e-Janaza (funeral prayer) for Baba Siddique is scheduled for later today, followed by the burial. The post also included tributes from family members, including Siddique’s daughter, Dr. Arshia Siddique, and wife, Shehzeen Siddique, highlighting the personal and public loss.

Siddique’s death comes despite him being under ‘Y’ category security. The police revealed that six bullets were fired, four of which hit Siddique in the chest. Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting, both claiming to be linked to the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Police are investigating these claims, as the gang has not officially taken responsibility for the assassination. The attack occurred during Dussehra festivities, raising concerns about political violence and security breaches.