SM Krishna dies at 92
SM Krishna, a distinguished politician and former Chief Minister of Karnataka, passed away early on Tuesday in Bengaluru following a prolonged illness. He was 92 years old. Initial reports indicate that SM Krishna, who had been hospitalized since October, died at his residence.
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge expressed his sorrow on X, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Shri S.M. Krishna, the former Chief Minister of Karnataka, whose legacy of leadership and public service has left an indelible mark on our state and nation. His vision and commitment significantly contributed to Karnataka’s development, and his corporate approach to governance in Bengaluru endeared him to many.”
Kharge further remarked, “We continue to benefit from his vision of transforming Bengaluru into a global city. As we remember him, we not only mourn the loss of a prominent political figure but also celebrate a life dedicated to serving the people. May his soul rest in peace, and may his contributions inspire future generations.”
SM Krishna served as the Chief Minister of Karnataka from 1999 to 2004 and held the position of Governor of Maharashtra from 2004 to 2008. In May 2009, he severed ties with the Congress party and joined the BJP in 2017, although he maintained a low profile in politics thereafter.
Additionally, he was the External Affairs Minister during the United Progressive Alliance government led by Manmohan Singh from 2009 to 2012. After nearly 50 years with the Congress, he joined the BJP in March 2017 and retired from active politics last year, as reported by news agency ANI.
In 2023, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan at Rashtrapati Bhavan for his contributions to public affairs. Upon receiving the honor, Krishna expressed his gratitude, stating, “My parents will be pleased and happy that the honorable Prime Minister and Home Minister have deemed it fit to confer this prestigious distinction upon me. I am thankful to the Government of India and the people of Karnataka.”
A graduate of law, he pursued his studies in the United States, earning degrees from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and The George Washington University Law School in Washington, D.C., where he was recognized as a Fulbright Scholar, as reported by an agency.
He held positions as a member of both the Karnataka assembly and council, serving as deputy chief minister from 1993 to 1994, and presided over the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee prior to the 1999 assembly elections, during which the party achieved victory and he assumed the role of chief minister. Many attribute the elevation of Bengaluru to a global status to his efforts, as the support provided to the IT sector during his administration has led to the city being recognized as ‘India’s Silicon Valley,’ according to a report by PTI.
