Former MP Kali Prasad Pandey Passes Away, Leaves Message for People of Gopalganj

Former MP Kali Prasad Pandey, a legendary strongman who dominated North Indian politics in the 1980s, passed away on Friday evening at Delhi’s Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. In his last message, he reflected on mortality and expressed his wish to remain useful to the people of Gopalganj: “Who knows when the message of death will arrive… I await the moment, O people of Gopalganj, when Kali’s life will be of use to you.”

Kali Pandey bids farewell

Born in Ramjita village of Kuchaykot assembly constituency in Bihar’s Gopalganj district, Pandey’s political journey was marked by dramatic events. He served as a member of the Bihar Legislative Assembly from 1980 to 1984 and contested the 1984 Lok Sabha elections from jail, emerging victorious as an independent candidate during the Congress wave that followed Indira Gandhi’s assassination. His supporters popularised the slogan: “Jail ka phatak tootega, Kali Pandey chhutega,” cementing his larger-than-life persona.

Bahubali Image and Film Connection

Pandey was renowned for his Bahubali image, considered one of the most formidable strongmen of North India in the 80s and 90s. His notoriety inspired the character “Kali Prasad” in N Chandra’s 1987 film Pratighaat, which locals believed mirrored his real-life image—a connection he acknowledged in a News-18 interview.

Political Career and Controversies

Pandey’s career saw several party shifts. After his independent victory, he joined Congress, later moved to Lalu Prasad Yadav’s RJD, and subsequently to Ram Vilas Paswan’s LJP, holding significant positions. He eventually returned to Congress and contested his final election in the 2020 assembly polls before retiring from active politics.

While his name was often linked to controversies, including a 1989 Patna Junction bomb attack allegation, none were proven in court. Experts note that he remained a mentor to many strongmen of the 80s and 90s, retaining influence despite these challenges.

Final Words and Legacy

Originally aspiring to be a teacher, Pandey sought to transform society through education. Yet destiny led him to politics. In his final days, he left this message for his people: “I wish that my life may be useful to you someday.”