In December 1978, what began as a regular domestic flight from Kolkata to Delhi turned into one of the most unexpected and politically charged incidents in Indian aviation history.
Indian Airlines Flight 410 was hijacked just minutes before landing. What followed was a series of strange events which was filled with political demands, a dramatic escape, and an unbelievable twist in the hijackers’ fate.
The Hijack: What happened, Who Did It and Why?
As Flight 410 prepared to land at Delhi’s Palam Airport, two passengers, Bhola Nath Pandey and Devendra Pandey, suddenly hijacked the aircraft. But this wasn’t an act of terrorism or personal revenge. It was deeply political.
What Did The Hijacker’s Demand?
- Release former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi from jail
- Drop all cases against her son, Sanjay Gandhi
- Dissolve the Janata Party government
These were not random attackers, but Indira Gandhi loyalists making a desperate political statement.
Emergency Landing in Varanasi
The hijackers initially demanded that the flight be landed in Nepal or Bangladesh, but the pilot refused, citing low fuel. Eventually, the aircraft safely landed in Varanasi. By this time, the hijack had become national news, and senior government officials rushed to the airport to handle the crisis.
Xylem IAS
Passengers Escape
When the plane experienced a lack of air, the hijackers allowed the rear fuselage door to be opened. Taking advantage of the moment, around 60 passengers escaped using the emergency slide. Realizing the situation was slipping from their control, the hijackers surrendered without resistance.
What Were the Weapons?
The most surprising revelation came later. The hijackers had used only a toy gun and cricket balls to threaten the passengers and crew. This strange detail turned the entire episode into a dark political comedy.
From Hijackers to Public Representatives
In a twist that seems straight out of a movie, in 1980, when the Congress party returned to power, all charges against the hijackers were dropped. Both hijackers were fielded as Congress candidates in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. They won and became elected MLAs. This political reward shocked the nation and raised serious concerns about the integrity of the democratic process.
Conclusion
The hijack of Indian Airlines Flight 410 was more than a safety breach. It was a political drama. The hijackers used a toy gun, but their message was serious. They had clear political motives. The fact that they were elected as MLAs makes many of us wonder if loyalty was placed above law.
Even today, this incident raises questions. Can public safety be risked for politics? Can such acts be justified?
The event is almost forgotten now. But it shouldn’t be. It reminds us how politics can go beyond campaigns and parliaments
