The Legendary Hijacking and Political Legacy of Bholanath Pandey

Former Congress MLA Bholanath Pandey, known for hijacking a plane with a toy gun in 1978 to demand Indira Gandhi's release, passed away at 71. Pandey, a prominent figure, significantly contributed to his constituency's development and was a close ally of the Gandhi family.

Former Congress MLA Bholanath Pandey, who first gained national attention in 1978 for hijacking a plane with a toy gun to demand the release of Indira Gandhi from prison, passed away on Friday. He was 71.

Congress Ballia district president Umashankar Pathak confirmed that Pandey, who had been ailing for a considerable period, died at his home in Lucknow. Pandey was twice elected MLA of the Doaba (now Bairia) Assembly constituency, and made significant contributions to the development of his area and the strengthening of his party.

The hijacking incident in 1978 catapulted Pandey to prominence. He and an accomplice commandeered Indian Airlines Flight 410, leading to a dramatic standoff that concluded in Varanasi. Pandey remained a loyal Congress member throughout his life, often contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Salempur, though he never secured a win. He is survived by four sons and two daughters.

(With inputs from agencies.)