Hundreds pay tribute, Baba Siddique laid to rest with full state honours

The Namaz-e-Janaza was offered outside Siddique’s Bandra residence around 8 pm, after which the procession moved towards Marine Lines for the final rites. Security was tightened around Bada Kabrastan, following an order by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, as Siddique had served as a minister in the Maharashtra Cabinet from 2004 to 2008.

Earlier in the day, Bollywood actor Salman Khan visited Siddique’s residence.

The gathering outside the cemetery displayed Baba Siddique’s widespread popularity with people from various walks, cutting across religious and political lines, coming to pay their respects.

Gufran Shaikh, who came from Goregaon to attend the burial, said, “We all know Baba Siddique was a good person. People gathered here across religious and political leanings speak volumes about his legacy.”

Asif Khan, a resident of Mumbai Central, shared his personal experiences with Siddique. “Our family runs a banner and vinyl printing business in Bandra. We know Siddique as a cooperative and calm person. He was someone who didn’t demand respect but earned it,” Khan said.

The funeral was attended by politicians, actors, party workers and common citizens, all of whom came together to bid farewell to the late leader.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal, RPI president Ramdas Athavale and NCP working president Praful Patel were among those present.