Who was Baba Siddique? Complete Details

Baba Ziauddin Siddique, widely known as Baba Siddique, was a prominent Indian politician who served multiple terms as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Maharashtra. Born on September 13, 1958, in Patna, Bihar, Siddique’s life was marked by his rise from local politics in Mumbai to becoming a significant figure in the state’s political landscape.

Early Life and Education

Baba Ziauddin Siddique, more commonly known as Baba Siddique, was born on September 13, 1958, in Patna, Bihar, to a family with modest beginnings. His parents, Abdul Rahim Siddiqui and Razia Siddiqui, later moved to Mumbai, Maharashtra, where he grew up.

He completed his early education at St. Ann’s High School in Bandra, one of the city’s prominent schools. Afterward, he pursued higher education at M.M.K. College, Mumbai, which further shaped his political awareness and social consciousness.

Siddique was exposed to political activism at a young age, as his family was involved in community service. His early influences played a role in steering him toward politics.

In 1977, at just 19, he officially entered politics, joining the Indian National Congress (INC), which was a dominant political force in Maharashtra and India at the time.

Entry into Politics

In 1980, Siddique began his journey as a youth leader when he was appointed as the General Secretary of the Bandra Taluka Youth Congress. His efforts in organizing local communities and engaging young people in politics quickly earned him recognition within the Congress party. By 1982, Siddique had already ascended to the position of President of the Bandra Taluka Youth Congress.

His success in youth politics propelled him into a broader political arena, and by 1988, he became the President of the Mumbai Youth Congress. His leadership style—marked by grassroots engagement and public welfare initiatives—cemented his status as a key player in Mumbai’s political landscape.

Rise to Prominence: Elected Roles

In 1992, Siddique was elected as a Municipal Councilor in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), one of the largest municipal corporations in India. This was his first major electoral victory and allowed him to directly impact the development of Mumbai’s infrastructure. As a councilor, he focused on improving local amenities and addressing the concerns of his constituency in Bandra, one of Mumbai’s most vibrant and diverse suburbs.

Siddique’s political career continued its upward trajectory when he was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Bandra West in 1999. His win marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship with the constituency, as he would go on to serve as its MLA for three consecutive terms, winning re-election in 2004 and 2009.

Legislative and Ministerial Contributions

As an MLA, Siddique played a significant role in the governance of Maharashtra. Between 2004 and 2008, he held the position of Minister of State in various capacities, including Food and Civil Supplies, Labour, and FDA (Food and Drug Administration). His work as a minister was focused on ensuring food security, regulating the state’s drug and food standards, and improving labor rights.

One of Siddique’s notable achievements during this time was his contribution to Maharashtra’s public distribution system, where he played an active role in enhancing food supply chains for underprivileged communities. He also worked on improving labor conditions in industries across Maharashtra, reflecting his commitment to public welfare and social justice.

Involvement in Local Development

part from his legislative roles, Baba Siddique was also actively involved in local development projects in Mumbai. One such project was his initiative to develop an eco-garden in Bandra-Khar in 2011, which became a popular green space for the city’s residents. His involvement in urban planning and community development demonstrated his deep connection to the people he served.

Siddique also chaired the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) Mumbai Board from 2000 to 2004. His tenure saw efforts to improve affordable housing, particularly for low-income families in Mumbai, a city grappling with urban sprawl and housing shortages.

The Iftar Party Tradition

One of the more well-known aspects of Baba Siddique’s political life was his annual Iftar party. This event became a hallmark of Mumbai’s political and social calendar, attended by politicians, Bollywood celebrities, and prominent business leaders.

The Iftar party, which symbolized communal harmony, gained widespread attention in 2013 when Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan famously reconciled after a five-year feud at the event.

This Iftar gathering came to symbolize Baba Siddique’s role as a unifying figure, not just in politics, but in the larger cultural landscape of Mumbai. His ability to bring together diverse groups from across the spectrum was a testament to his diplomatic approach and social leadership.

Political Shift and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)

In 2024, shortly before his tragic death, Siddique made a significant political move by leaving the Indian National Congress (INC) and joining the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Ajit Pawar. His defection came just months before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and was seen as a blow to the Congress Party, where he had been a prominent figure for over 40 years.

Siddique’s shift to the NCP underscored his adaptability and pragmatic approach to politics. It also reflected his desire to align with political forces that were more in tune with the evolving dynamics of Maharashtra’s politics, particularly with Ajit Pawar’s growing influence in the state.

Assassination and Legacy

Baba Siddique’s life came to a tragic end on October 12, 2024, when he was shot and killed by unknown assailants outside his son Zeeshan Siddique’s office in Mumbai. Despite being rushed to Lilavati Hospital, he succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind a legacy of public service and political leadership. The murder sent shockwaves through Maharashtra, and the arrests of two suspects highlighted the violence that can sometimes surround political figures in India.

Siddique’s death was a loss not only for his family but also for the political community in Maharashtra, where he had spent decades serving the public. His son, Zeeshan Siddique, who is also an MLA, continues his father’s political legacy, having been elected to the Bandra East constituency.

Personal Life

Baba Siddique was married to Shehzeen Siddique, and the couple had two children: a daughter, Dr. Arshiya Siddique, and a son, Zeeshan Siddique. His family has remained actively involved in public life, with Zeeshan now carrying the political torch. Arshiya, a doctor by profession, has pursued a career in medicine, while Zeeshan remains a significant figure in Mumbai’s politics.

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Baba Siddique’s life and career were marked by his dedication to public service, his ability to navigate complex political landscapes, and his deep connection to the people of Mumbai. His journey from a youth leader to a three-term MLA and minister is a testament to his resilience and leadership. Even in his final political move to the NCP, Siddique demonstrated his commitment to staying relevant and impactful in Maharashtra’s politics.

His legacy lives on through his son, Zeeshan, and the numerous public projects and initiatives he championed throughout his career