3 whodunnit theories, but no motive thus far

The Crime Branch has identified 6 persons in the Siddique case and arrested 3

- Ashish Singh & Megha Kuchik

The murder of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP Ajit Pawar) leader and former minister Baba Siddique remains shrouded in mystery, with the motive still unclear.

While multiple theories are circulating, police are thoroughly investigating all possible angles and so far, three key theories have emerged. According to senior officers, the Bishnoi syndicate is suspected of having orchestrated this high-profile assassination, to establish a reign of terror and pave the way for future extortion operations.

By targeting Baba Siddique—an influential figure with deep connections in both Bollywood and the real estate industry—the gang aimed to send shockwaves across these sectors. The assassination is viewed as a calculated move to intimidate key figures and create an atmosphere of fear, thus amplifying the gang's influence. Additionally, officers are considering the possibility that the murder may be tied to unresolved business rivalries, which remain unclear, and are also exploring a potential connection to a pending Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) project that could have been a factor in the crime.

On Sunday, the Lawrence Bishnoi gang claimed responsibility for the killing in a Facebook post by a gang member. The post stated that Baba Siddique was killed due to his alleged links with the fugitive ganglord Dawood Ibrahim.

The chilling post also warned those associated with Bollywood actor Salman Khan of having to face consequences. The post opened with, "Om, Jai Shri Ram, Jai Bharat," followed by, "I know the essence of life; wealth or my mortal body is not important. I did what was right to honour a duty of friendship...