SM Krishna, former Union Minister and Karnataka Chief Minister, dies at 92

Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna, the former Minister of External Affairs and Chief Minister of Karnataka, died on Tuesday.

He was 92. Krishna, who played a key role in shaping India’s foreign policy from 2009 to 2012, died at his residence in Bengaluru after a prolonged illness.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the death of SM Krishna on X, describing him as a “remarkable leader” admired by people across different walks of life. “SM Krishna Ji was a remarkable leader, admired by people from all walks of life,” PM Modi said.

“I have had many opportunities to interact with Shri SM Krishna Ji over the years, and I will always cherish those interactions. I am deeply saddened by his passing. My condolences to his family and admirers,” he added.

Expressing shock over the death of SM Krishna, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, “Krishna’s service as a State and Union Minister and Chief Minister is unparalleled. Karnataka will always be indebted to him for his contribution to the growth of the IT-BT sector, especially as Chief Minister.”

“Krishna, who was a secretive politician, was an enemy of Ajatasatru. Krishna, who was my guide in the early days of joining the Congress party, was always my well-wisher. Krishna’s foresight, disciplined life, gentlemanly demeanour and studious attitude are role models for budding politicians. I also share in the grief of his family and fans who are saddened by his passing away. I pray to God that his soul rests in peace,” he added.

Former Prime Minister HD Devegowda condoled SM Krishna’s death on X, and said, “I am saddened by the passing away of SM Krishna, my friend and longtime Karnataka colleague.”

He reflected on their shared political journey, noting how they began their careers around the same time but developed distinct approaches to governance.

Karnataka’s IT Minister Priyank Kharge also paid tribute to Krishna. “Deeply saddened by the demise of Shri 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,” Kharge said.

Kharge noted the broader significance of Krishna’s leadership, saying, “As we remember him, we not only grieve the loss of a towering figure in our politics, but also celebrate a life well-lived in service to the people.”

Krishna served as the chief minister of Karnataka from 1999 to 2004, during which he was credited with transforming Bengaluru into the country’s technology hub, earning the city the title of “Silicon Valley of India.”

In addition to his role as Karnataka’s chief minister, Krishna held several important positions throughout his political career. He was the Union Minister for External Affairs from 2009 to 2012 and served as the governor of Maharashtra from 2004 to 2008.

POLITICAL CAREER
Krishna began his political career in the 1960s. In 1962, he contested as an independent from the Maddur assembly seat and won, defeating the Congress candidate. He later joined the Praja Socialist Party and won the Mandya Lok Sabha seat in a by-election in 1968. Krishna returned to Congress in 1971 and won the same Lok Sabha seat again.

In 1985, he returned to state politics and became Karnataka’s chief minister in 1999, serving until 2004.

SHIFT TO BJP AND HONOURS
In 2017, Krishna made a significant shift in his political career when he left Congress and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In 2023, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in recognition of his contributions to Indian politics.

Krishna announced in January 2023 that he would step away from active politics.