In the aftermath of NCP leader Baba Siddique’s assassination, his son, former MLA Zeeshan Siddique, has implicated several politicians and developers in his statement to the police. He suggests that disputes over slum redevelopment projects in Bandra may have played a role in his father’s murder. Among those named are BJP leader Mohit Kamboj and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anil Parab, both of whom have publicly denied any involvement and have expressed support for a comprehensive investigation.
Zeeshan Siddique’s statement is part of the charge sheet filed by the Mumbai Crime Branch on January 6, which lists 26 arrested individuals and three wanted suspects in connection with the case. He alleges that on the day of the murder, Kamboj had a phone conversation with his father. Kamboj acknowledges this interaction, stating, “Baba was a good friend of mine, and being residents of Bandra, we knew each other for the last 15 years. We would speak on political and non-political issues at least two to four times a week.” He emphasizes that his name does not appear in the charge sheet and that he visited the hospital to support the family upon learning of the incident. Kamboj advocates for a thorough investigation, asserting that all individuals involved should face stringent punishment.
Anil Parab, another politician mentioned by Zeeshan, also denies the allegations. He confirms attending a meeting concerning the Sant Dnyaneshwar Nagar slum redevelopment project in Bandra East but clarifies that it was an all-party meeting aimed at supporting local residents in their redevelopment efforts. Parab states, “I attended the SRA meeting, as it was an all-party meeting. Zeeshan, the Shiv Sena’s Kunal Sarmalkar, and some local MNS leaders too were present. In our speeches, we all supported the slum dwellers in their quest for redevelopment.” He further notes that if Zeeshan has concerns about the investigation, he should address them with the police or the state government.
The Mumbai police have indicated in the charge sheet that Baba Siddique was allegedly killed by the Anmol Bishnoi gang due to his close association with actor Salman Khan. The 66-year-old former Maharashtra minister was shot dead outside his son’s office in Khernagar, Bandra East, on October 12, 2024. Three assailants armed with sophisticated pistols attacked him as he left the office around 9:30 pm.
Zeeshan Siddique has also met with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to discuss his father’s assassination, seeking justice and a thorough investigation. He has mentioned names of builders and political leaders in his police statement, aiming to uncover any connections to the murder.
As the investigation progresses, the political community continues to call for a fair and comprehensive probe to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
