Known for his meteoric rise in politics and for making Pune prominent on the politicalmap, Pune’s sitting MP Suresh Kalmadi was arrested for alleged irregularities in Commonwealth Games (CWG) corruption cases. Puneites talk about the man who once made them proud…
Sheila Dixit & Jaipal Reddy should also be interrogated
When the planning for the CWG had started, the BJP had pointed out areas where corruption could take place. It had even written to the prime minister (PM) about it. If the PM had taken precautions, then the scam would have never taken place. It is good to hear about Kalmadi’s arrest. The CBI should file a chargesheet within 90 days. Though the arrest has come late, the CBI should not let the opportunity go waste by filing the chargesheet late. People and opposition parties should put pressure and make the CBI file the chargesheet. Kalmadi had made a statement that if he is arrested, he will not let the others involved go free. He had taken the names of Sheila Dixit and Jaipal Reddy. The CBI should take these people under scanner as they may get new leads in the case.
Lucas Patole, dialysis technician
I never thought that the CBI could arrest him
I am shocked to hear that Kalmadi has been arrested. I was hearing about the CWG scam for a long time but I thought nothing would come out. He is an MP and has played a major role in organising the Pune Festival, the Commonwealth Youth Games and other events. I never thought that the CBI could arrest him. He has represented Pune for so many years and now has been caught in a big scam. He started his career from Pune. His arrest has maligned Pune’s image. The CBI is doing a good job and I hope things get sorted out soon. No person has the right to misuse public money.
Shweta Sabnis, research associate
Kalmadi once made us proud but now has let us down
The news of SureshKalmadi’s arrest was a shocker. The arrest should have been made much earlier. All events pointed to his alleged involvement in the CWG scam. We need a strong judicial system to curb the increasing corruption. Kalmadi’s involvement has not only brought shame to Pune but to the country, the ruling party and to the common man. Every time a new scam is exposed, it is sad to know that our politicians are not using their power for the country’s betterment. The money lost in scams alone could lift India out of poverty. Kalmadi made us proud with his meteoric rise in the Indian political system at a young age. He made our city prominent on the political map. He was also instrumental in administering sports and bringing coveted games to the country. But at what cost? As citizens we didn’t want this.
Pritesh Shah, functional consultant
I am ashamed to elect such a politician as a leader
I am not shocked but ashamed that a politician, who has the responsibility of bringing about developments, has been alleged to be involved in a scam. It is sad and a matter of concern that because our so-called educated class is not voting, we are electing the wrong people as our leaders. Politicians are made by people; we elect them to bring about a change. If we don’t vote and help in electing the right candidate, then such scams are bound to happen. As Punekars, we only wait for things to change. We have to realise that the city has changed and grown manifold. The city politics is not confined to a few political leaders or people. The city, which was earlier a hot spot for any political or social movement, has taken a back seat as people are busy with their lives. The CWG scam is going on for the last eight months. Kalmadi as a leader never had a clean image because he was involved in many controversies. His career is not over with his arrest. These politicians have an uncanny way of bouncing back. He has only been arrested, not proved guilty.
Rajendra Nisal, MD, Penta Designers and Engineers
The MP has spoiled India’s image at a global level
I got the news of Kalmadi’s arrest via an SMS from a friend. But it didn’t shock me because the arrest has come late. The investigations in the scam have been pulled for long. Though Pune’s name is linked with his name, it does not bring shame because our image is not dependent on one person’s deeds. An MP from the city, who is alleged to be involved in a scam will not affect or spoil Pune’s image. Our city has a history of standing against corruption and injustice. I am surprised why the arrest has been made when the elections are at the door. It is a calculated move by the Congress leaders. The situation will benefit the NCP during the elections. The scam has made Kalmadi infamous in the UK and US. It has spoiled India’s image at a global level.
Shantanu Pendharkar, entrepreneur
Kalmadi may escape the law by using his power
If he has done something wrong, then he should be punished. The CBI has done a good job by gathering evidence and arresting him. But he may escape the law because he is a powerful politician. If proven guilty, his crime is an individual matter and does not bring any shame to the city. If the evidence is strong, then he ought to be punished. I am happy that finally some action has been taken in the
matter.
Anajan Ekka, bank employee
His arrest has brought a bad name to Pune
The news of Kalmadi’s arrest does not shock me. He should have been arrested long time ago. All those who are related to the CWG scam need to be put behind the bars, irrespective of their position. The CBI must fearlessly carry out the investigation without getting bogged down by any pressure. Kalmadi represents Pune and his arrest has brought a bad name to the city. His arrest is justifiable because he has been put behind the bars after being interrogated for the fourth time by the CBI. The MP had enough chance to prove his innocence. The CBI has arrested him after gathering enough evidence. It will be interesting to see how the case unfolds. The culprits must not be spared in the interest of the nation.
Mahesh Kalge, IT Professional
Comments: 1