Suresh Kalmadi, Congress Leader Embroiled in Commonwealth Games Scandal, Passes Away at 81

Image Source: Internet

Former Union Minister and senior Congress leader Suresh Kalmadi has passed away at the age of 81, following a prolonged illness. The politician, who was embroiled in a high-profile corruption scandal surrounding the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India, died in Pune, Maharashtra. Kalmadi's family has announced that his mortal remains will be kept at Kalmadi House in Pune's Erandwane for a short period, before being cremated at Vaikunth smashanbhumi at 3:30 PM. During his illustrious career, Kalmadi held various positions, including President of the Indian Youth Congress, President of the Youth Congress for Maharashtra, and Member of the Rajya Sabha. He also served as the Minister of State for Railways and President of the Indian Olympic Association. However, Kalmadi's tenure as IOA president was marred by controversy, including a scandal involving the organisation of the Commonwealth Games. In 2011, he was arrested by the CBI for his alleged role in the TSR case, and served a 10-month sentence in Tihar jail. Following the scandal, Kalmadi was suspended from the Indian National Congress and removed from his post as IOA president. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. Kalmadi's legacy is complex, marked by both achievements in Indian politics and sports, as well as controversy and scandal. His passing has sparked tributes from various quarters, with many remembering his contributions to the country's sporting scene.