Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Suresh Kalmadi has passed away in Pune. He was 81 years old. The veteran politician breathed his last in the early hours of Tuesday, following a prolonged illness.
A Political and Sporting Legacy Ends
Suresh Kalmadi died at around 3:30 am on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, as confirmed by sources to PTI. His death marks the end of a long and influential career that spanned both national politics and sports administration.
Kalmadi was a prominent political figure from Pune and represented the city multiple times in the Lok Sabha. He held the position of Union Minister of State for Railways during his tenure in government. Beyond politics, he was deeply involved in sports, serving as the former president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) for many years.
Key Roles and Contributions
Throughout his career, Suresh Kalmadi held several key positions. He was a senior leader in the Indian National Congress and a well-known face in Maharashtra's political landscape. His work in sports administration placed him at the center of major sporting events in India.
His association with the IOA was particularly significant, overseeing Indian participation in multiple Olympic Games and other international sporting events. His dual roles in governance and sports made him a unique and often discussed figure in Indian public life.
Remembering the Veteran Leader
The news of his passing was first reported by ANI and has been confirmed by other agencies. The announcement has drawn reactions from across the political and sporting spectrums, with many acknowledging his contributions.
While his later years were marked by health challenges, his earlier work left a lasting impact on both the political arena of Pune and the organizational structure of Indian sports. His death closes a notable chapter in India's contemporary political and sporting history.
