Former MP Suresh Kalmadi, who played key role in Pune’s development, passes away

Kalmadi was suspended from the Congress party in 2011 following the CWC scam.

“He was acquitted in most cases related to the scam. Only one case was pending,” Congress city spokesperson Ramesh Iyer said.

The Congress said Suresh Kalmadi was primarily instrumental in the development of Pune city.

”Pune’s development in real terms started in 1992 when Kalmadi was leading the party with a young brigade of corporators who were elected to the Pune Municipal Corporation… He implemented several development projects. It was Kalmadi who had taken the initiative to organise the National Games in 1992 in Pune, which further boosted the city’s development,” said Iyer.

On the cultural front, too, Kalmadi played a crucial role. “He started the Pune Festival, which is held during the Ganesh festival, and drew crowds from across the world. It was one event, with many dimensions,” the Congress said.

After his suspension from Congress, Kalmadi went into a shell, and remained away from the public.

“And it was his disappearance from active politics that brought the Congress down in Pune. Without Kalmadi not holding the reins, Congress fared badly in Pune Lok Sabha, assembly and civic elections,” said a Congress leader.

Kalmadi is survived by his wife, two daughters, son, and grandchildren.

His funeral will be held at Vaikunth crematorium at 3 pm, Congress leaders said.