Baba Siddique's killing and the rise of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang
Oct 21, 2024
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In this discussion, Mohamed Thaver, a Mumbai crime reporter, shares gripping insights into the assassination of Baba Siddique, a notable NCP leader, and its connection to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Shubhangi Khapre, a Maharashtra politics reporter, delves into the political fallout of this shocking event, highlighting the law enforcement struggles in combating gang violence intertwined with politics. They discuss the possible motivations behind the murder, its implications for the upcoming elections, and the alarming resurgence of organized crime in Mumbai.
The assassination of Baba Siddiqui raises significant concerns about the safety of political figures amid a revival of gang violence in Maharashtra.
The involvement of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang in this high-profile murder highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in curbing organized crime.
Deep dives
Political Implications of Baba Siddiqui's Murder
The assassination of Baba Siddiqui, a prominent political figure in Maharashtra, has significant implications for the state's political landscape, especially with upcoming assembly elections. Siddiqui, affiliated with the ruling coalition, represented a key minority community and was influential in local politics. His murder raises concerns about the safety of politicians amid rising gang violence, particularly as the ruling government faces criticism for failing to ensure law and order. This incident could potentially consolidate minority votes against the ruling party, threatening its position in the upcoming elections.
The Lawrence Bishnoi Gang's Growing Influence
The investigation into Siddiqui's murder points towards the involvement of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, which has established a reputation for criminal activities, including extortion and murder. Bishnoi, who operates from prison, has been linked to several high-profile crimes, creating a climate of fear in North India. The gang's ability to execute such a high-profile murder in Mumbai signifies its rising clout and the challenges faced by law enforcement in controlling organized crime. The linkage of this case to previous threats against celebrities like Salman Khan further underscores Bishnoi's intent to instill fear and assert dominance in the criminal underworld.
Motive Behind the Murder: Personal Rivalry or Extortion?
Speculations surrounding the motive for Baba Siddiqui's assassination suggest several possibilities, including personal rivalries, involvement in real estate disputes, or gang-related contracts. The police are investigating whether the murder aligns with ongoing land-related conflicts or is a targeted attack orchestrated by the Bishnoi gang in retaliation for past grievances. Notably, the gang has previously targeted individuals refusing to comply with extortion demands, indicating a methodical approach to asserting control. However, the unprecedented nature of a political assassination in Mumbai raises questions about the evolving landscape of gang violence and its implications for governance.
Law Enforcement's Challenges in Maintaining Order
The killing of Baba Siddiqui highlights critical challenges faced by law enforcement in Maharashtra, particularly in containing organized crime and ensuring political safety. Historically, Mumbai has witnessed a decline in high-profile gang-related killings since the 1990s, raising questions about the recent resurgence of violence. Investigators emphasized the unusual nature of this assassination, as it deviates from the typical pattern of intimidation tactics used by gangs. The incident not only places pressure on law enforcement to act decisively but also raises concerns about the broader implications for public safety and governance in the region.
On the 12th of October, Baba Siddique, a prominent Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and a member of the ruling Mahayuti coalition in Maharashtra, was shot dead in Bandra. While the exact motive behind the killing remains unclear, the Mumbai police suspect that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang was involved. The incident has cast a spotlight on the city's law and order situation, reminding people of the notorious gang-related crimes Mumbai witnessed in the 1990s.
In this episode, The Indian Express' Mohamed Thaver and Shubhangi Khapre discuss what we know about the killing so far, the concerns it raises, and its implications for the ruling alliance so close to the upcoming elections.
Hosted, written, and produced by Shashank Bhargava Audio clips sources by Ichha Sharma Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
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