In a surprising turn of events, jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi has been requested to contest the upcoming state elections in Maharashtra. A letter circulating on social media shows a document apparently written on the letterhead of a political group called Uttar Bhartiya Vikas Sena (UBVS). The letterhead claims that UBVS is officially registered with both the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the state election commission, adding further intrigue to the situation.
The letter, dated October 18, 2024, addresses Lawrence Bishnoi as "Aadarneeya" (honourable) Shri Lawrence Bishnoi and proudly acknowledges his north Indian roots from Punjab. In a controversial comparison, the letter likens Bishnoi to the freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, despite his criminal record. It then goes on to request that Bishnoi contest the upcoming Maharashtra Legislative Assembly elections, set to take place next month. The address provided in the letter is none other than that of Sabarmati jail in Gujarat, where Bishnoi is currently lodged.
This move has sparked a wave of reactions, especially given Bishnoi's notorious background. His criminal network recently made headlines after claiming responsibility for the murder of Baba Siddique, a prominent figure in Mumbai's political circles. The murder took place on Dussehra, October 12, 2024, and sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political landscape. Bishnoi’s gang alleged that Siddique was killed because of his links with the infamous gangster Dawood Ibrahim, deepening the political and criminal intrigue.
Lawrence Bishnoi is no stranger to controversy. He has also made headlines in the past for his threats against Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. Bishnoi, a member of the Bishnoi community that reveres wildlife, specifically the Chinkara (Indian gazelle), has threatened to kill Khan due to the actor’s alleged involvement in a Chinkara poaching case many years ago.
The killing of Baba Siddique has left both the political and entertainment sectors on edge. Mumbai Police, responding to the high-profile murder, have arrested 10 suspects so far, with five of them coming from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The arrests have also extended to other locations across India as the investigation widens.
Many citizens have expressed astonishment over how a jailed gangster like Bishnoi can continue to operate his criminal network from behind bars. The government, in response to the growing tension, has increased security for Salman Khan, fearing that he could be targeted next. The investigation into Siddique’s murder is still ongoing, with more arrests likely as authorities dig deeper into the gang’s operations.
As the political landscape in Maharashtra heats up ahead of the elections, the possibility of a criminal figure like Lawrence Bishnoi entering the political arena has raised serious concerns. Questions are being asked about the influence of organized crime in politics, and whether the lines between the two are becoming increasingly blurred.