Former Pune MP and Senior Congress Leader Suresh Kalmadi Passes Away at 82 in Pune
Former Pune MP and Senior Congress Leader Suresh Kalmadi Passes Away at 82 in Pune
Pune: Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Suresh Kalmadi passed away at his residence in Pune on Monday (January 6). He was 82. Kalmadi’s mortal remains will be kept at his residence for public homage until 2 pm, after which the last rites will be performed.
A prominent figure in Pune’s political landscape for decades, Kalmadi served multiple terms as the Member of Parliament from Pune and held a ministerial position when the Congress was in power at the Centre. He wielded significant influence in city politics for many years and enjoyed strong grassroots support.
However, his political career suffered a major setback following allegations linked to the 2010 Commonwealth Games scam, in which he was accused of corruption while serving as the chairman of the organising committee. After years of legal proceedings, the Enforcement Directorate filed a closure report in April 2025, granting him a clean chit. Despite this, Kalmadi was unable to make a political comeback.
In recent years, he had largely withdrawn from public life due to ill health. A few days ago, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had visited him following a deterioration in his condition.
Born on May 1, 1944, Suresh Shamsherrao Kalmadi was also a noted sports administrator, having served as the President of the Indian Olympic Association. Before entering politics, he was a pilot with the Indian Air Force.
His demise marks the end of a significant chapter in Pune’s political history.
