Pune, India — Senior Congress leader and former Union minister Suresh Kalmadi, a towering figure in Indian politics and sports administration, passed away on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, at the age of 81 after a prolonged illness. He breathed his last at around 3:30 AM at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune, where he had been receiving treatment.
Kalmadi’s political journey spanned over four decades. Beginning his career as a leader in the Indian Youth Congress, he went on to serve multiple terms in both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, representing Pune with distinction. As Union Minister of State for Railways in the mid-1990s, he played a key role in national infrastructure debates.
Beyond politics, Kalmadi was a central figure in Indian sports administration. He served as President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) for over a decade and led the Asian Athletics Association. His tenure as chairman of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games brought India into the global sporting spotlight — but also drew criticism and controversy over organisational and financial issues that marked a complex legacy.
Kalmadi is survived by his wife, a son and daughter-in-law, two daughters and sons-in-law, and grandchildren. The family will keep his mortal remains at Kalmadi House in Erandwane until mid-afternoon, and they will perform the last rites later today at Vaikunth Crematorium in Navi Peth, Pune.
Leaders from across the political spectrum have expressed their condolences, highlighting his decades of public service, influence in Indian sports, and deep connection with Pune’s civic life. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in both political and sports governance in India.
