Salman Khan pays last respects to Baba Siddique amid heavy security

MUMBAI: Actor Salman Khan paid his last respects to former Maharashtra minister and NCP leader Baba Siddique at his residence yesterday evening. Salman Khan, who has been receiving death threats, arrived under tight security with bodyguards.

Baba Siddique was shot dead on Saturday. Upon hearing the news, the filming of ‘Bigg Boss’ was immediately halted and Salman Khan rushed to the hospital where Siddique was admitted.

Siddique, a prominent figure with significant influence in both politics and the film industry, was known for his close ties with Bollywood superstars Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. It was through Siddique’s mediation that the long-standing rift between the two actors was resolved.

The Bishnoi gang has claimed responsibility for Siddique’s murder. A Facebook post from an account under the name of Shubbu Longar accused Siddique of having links with underworld figure Dawood Ibrahim and Bollywood actor Salman Khan. The gang’s enmity towards Salman Khan stems from his involvement in the blackbuck hunting case, as the animal is considered sacred by the Bishnoi community.

Siddique was hit by six bullets during the attack, with reports indicating that three assailants were involved. Two suspects have reportedly been arrested. Security measures have been heightened at Salman Khan’s residence, which is located near the shooting occurred, after the incident. Earlier, two gunmen had fired shots near Khan's residence, further escalating tensions.