Mumbai: In a significant development in the high-profile murder case of NCP leader Baba Siddique, the Bombay High Court on Monday granted bail to the first accused, Akashdeep Karaj Singh. Baba Siddique was shot dead on October 12, 2024, outside his son Zeeshan Siddique’s office in Bandra, Mumbai, triggering nationwide arrests and a major investigation.
Details of the Accused and Investigation
Akashdeep, 21, from Fazilka district in Punjab, was identified as the main accused and the first to receive bail in the case. He allegedly acted as a coordinator between the shooters and conspirators linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Police have also pointed to the involvement of Anmol, Lawrence Bishnoi’s brother, though Lawrence himself remains in Sabarmati Jail in Ahmedabad and has not yet been interrogated regarding this case.
So far, over 27 people have been arrested in connection with the murder. Akashdeep was the 24th accused to be apprehended, following a joint operation by the Mumbai Crime Branch and the Punjab Anti-Gangster Task Force.
High Court Bail and Conditions
The single bench of Justice Neela Gokhale granted bail while emphasizing that it does not set a precedent for other accused seeking bail in this case. The court imposed strict conditions:
- Akashdeep must reside in Maharashtra.
- He must report to the local police station every alternate Monday.
- His passport must be surrendered to the authorities.
- He cannot leave the state without prior permission from the trial court.
The defense argued that there is no conclusive evidence against Akashdeep, citing only a call record made before the incident.
Case Background
Baba Siddique, 66, a veteran politician who had previously been with Congress before joining the NCP, was shot dead by three assailants. The murder caused significant political upheaval in Maharashtra, and the investigation into the motive and masterminds behind the killing is still ongoing.
Discover more from SD NEWS agency
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.