In a dramatic turn of events that has left the film industry and political circles on edge, the fatal assassination of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Baba Siddique has prompted the Maharashtra government to step up security for Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. The decision to assign Y-plus security detail to Khan follows apprehension that he might be the next target following Siddique’s murder in Mumbai on October 12.
Reports indicate that the heinous act was carried out by three individuals allegedly linked to the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Bishnoi’s gang has taken responsibility for the gruesome killing, raising red flags about a possible threat to Khan, who shared a close bond with the late politician. This development has cast a pall over the film industry, touching off reactions from people close to Khan, most notably from his old friend and actor, Vindu Dara Singh.
In a candid discussion with Instant Bollywood, Vindu Dara Singh voiced his concerns about the recent events unfolding in the industry, expressing disbelief over the lawlessness and lack of transparency in the system. “You have to understand,” he remarked, “A different type of law is going on. This is very funny because there is a court and everything. No one knows the truth, and nothing has been proven yet. It’s shocking and unbelievable. I hope and pray that better sense prevails and Salman ko kuch na ho (nothing happens to Salman).”
The murder of Siddique has also prompted reactions from various quarters, including from Somy Ali, Khan’s former partner, who addressed an open letter to Lawrence Bishnoi. Through her Instagram account, she acknowledged widespread reports about Bishnoi making Zoom calls even from prison, expressing her disbelief and requesting a conversation with him to understand how this could occur.
. Her message included a cultural touchpoint, referencing the beauty of Rajasthan and expressing a desire for dialogue prior to any potential visit for a religious ceremony.
The unsettling developments are a stark reminder of Salman Khan’s long-running feud with Bishnoi, which dates back to the early 2000s. At the heart of their conflict lies the infamous blackbuck poaching case, where Khan was convicted for hunting the protected species in Rajasthan—a species held sacred by the Bishnoi community. Though Khan served a short stint in jail for the offense, it left an indelible mark, provoking anger and hostility from the Bishnoi community towards him, evidenced by multiple threats over the years.
The assassination of Siddique sent shockwaves not just due to its brutal nature but also because of his close relationship with Khan—a friendship that spans decades. The actor was reportedly overcome with emotion and seen in tears at Siddique’s residence in the immediate aftermath. It is said that Siddique, who used to host the coveted annual Iftar party with Khan, had been a steadfast supporter of the actor during various ups and downs in his career.
Given the volatile situation, authorities acted swiftly to enhance security for Salman Khan, designating Y-plus security that entails 11 personnel, including commandos, to ensure his safety. Amid this tension, the film industry remains on high alert, with colleagues and fans hoping for justice for Siddique’s untimely death and praying for Khan’s safety in these turbulent times.
The interplay between Bollywood’s glamor and organized crime has often piqued the curiosity of outsiders, but instances such as these remind all stakeholders of the real and present dangers that sometimes intersect with the world of entertainment. As investigators continue to delve into the motivations and masterminds behind Siddique’s killing, industry figures like Vindu Dara Singh and Somy Ali highlight the deep and personal impact such events have on those connected to the saga.
As the authorities’ protective measures for Salman Khan take effect, fans and industry insiders alike hold a collective breath, hoping that peace and justice will prevail in what has been a deeply unsettling chapter for Bollywood and its interconnected political landscape.
