Suresh Kalmadi Passes Away at 81 in Pune

Former Union minister, senior Congress leader and ex-president of the Indian Olympic Association, Suresh Kalmadi, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 81 after a prolonged illness. He was undergoing treatment at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune. His death marks the end of a long and eventful career in Indian politics and sports administration, marked by both influence and controversy.

Funeral and Last Rites

According to officials from his office, Kalmadi’s mortal remains were kept at his residence in Erandwane till 2 pm to allow party workers, associates, and citizens to pay their last respects. The cremation was scheduled for 3.30 pm at Vaikunth smashanbhumi in Navi Peth, Pune, later in the day.

Political Career and Ministerial Role

Kalmadi was a veteran Congress leader from Maharashtra and remained an influential political figure in Pune for decades. He served as Minister of State for Railways between 1995 and 1996 in a Congress-led government. Over the years, he held several organisational responsibilities and was closely associated with national-level party politics.

Role in Sports Administration

Apart from politics, Kalmadi played a significant role in Indian sports administration. He served multiple terms as president of the Indian Olympic Association and was a central figure in managing national sports bodies. His tenure brought him national prominence, particularly during India’s hosting of the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• The Indian Olympic Association is India’s recognised National Olympic Committee.
• The 2010 Commonwealth Games were hosted in New Delhi.
• The Prevention of Corruption Act is used to prosecute corruption-related offences in India.
• Ministers of State assist Cabinet ministers in Union ministries.

Controversies and Early Life

Kalmadi came under intense scrutiny for alleged irregularities in the 2010 Commonwealth Games and was arrested in 2011 under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, leading to his suspension from the Congress party. Despite this, he continued to wield influence within sports bodies for several years. Before entering politics, he served as a pilot in the Indian Air Force during the 1960s and early 1970s, later transitioning into public life.