Veteran Congress Leader Suresh Kalmadi Passes Away at 81

Former Union minister and senior Congress leader Suresh Kalmadi passed away at the age of 81 in Pune after a prolonged illness. He was undergoing treatment at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital. A veteran politician and former president of the Indian Olympic Association, Kalmadi played a significant role in sports administration.

Post Published By: Sona Saini

Updated : 6 January 2026, 8:32 AM IST

Former Union Minister Suresh Kalmadi Dies in Pune

Pune: Senior Congress leader, former Union Minister, and former President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), Suresh Kalmadi, passed away early Tuesday morning at the age of 81. According to an official statement issued by his office, he breathed his last at around 3:30 a.m. at the Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune. He had been ill for a long time and was undergoing treatment at the hospital.

Political and Family Life

Suresh Kalmadi was a former Member of Parliament from Pune and also served as Minister of State for Railways. His family includes his wife, son, daughter-in-law, two daughters, a son-in-law, and grandchildren. His passing has sent shockwaves through the political and social circles.

Last Rites and Funeral

According to information provided by the family, Kalmadi's body will be kept for last rites at his residence, Kalmadi House, in Erandwane, Pune, until 2 p.m. Following this, his last rites will be performed at the Vaikunth crematorium in Navi Peth, Pune, at 3:30 p.m.

Important role in sports administration

Along with politics, Suresh Kalmadi's name was also prominently associated with sports administration. He served as President of the Indian Olympic Association and played an influential role in the country's sports administration for many years. During his tenure, India increased its participation in many international sporting events.

Commonwealth Games controversy

However, his career was not without controversy. His name surfaced in an alleged corruption case related to the 2010 Commonwealth Games. He was charged under the Prevention of Corruption Act, and after his arrest in April 2011, the Congress suspended him from the party.

Influence despite controversies

Despite controversies, Kalmadi managed to maintain influence in sports organizations. In 2016, he and Abhay Singh Chautala were appointed life presidents of the IOA. With his demise, a long chapter in Indian politics and sports administration came to an end.