S.M. Krishna’s political journey lasted almost 60 years. After returning from America in 1962, he contested his first election. In 2020, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second highest civilian honour, for his services.
Krishna left Congress and joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2017. However, after joining BJP, he was not very active in politics. He is especially remembered for his tenure as the Chief Minister of Karnataka.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the demise of former Karnataka Chief Minister SM Krishna. PM Modi praised him, calling him a remarkable leader who is known for focusing on infrastructural development in Karnataka. Former External Affairs Minister and Karnataka Chief Minister Somanhalli Mallaiah Krishna died early Tuesday at his residence in Bengaluru. He was 92 years old and was undergoing treatment for age-related ailments. Known for his intellectual capacity and administrative skills, SM Krishna had an illustrious political career spanning more than five decades.
He was also a reader and thinker
In an ex-post, PM Modi wrote, “S.M. Krishna was an extraordinary leader, admired by people from all walks of life. He always worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others. His tenure as Chief Minister of Karnataka is particularly remembered for his focus on infrastructure development. He was also a reader and thinker.”
PM Modi said- I am deeply saddened by his death
He further wrote on Twitter that over the last few years, I have had many opportunities to interact with SM Krishna Ji, and I will always remember those interactions. I am deeply saddened by his demise. My condolences to his family and fans. Om Shanti.
Krishna was one of the most successful leaders of his time
Born on May 1, 1932, in Maddur, Karnataka, Krishna was educated at Maharaja’s College, Mysore and Government Law College, Bengaluru, followed by advanced degrees from Southern Methodist University in Texas and George Washington University in Washington DC. A recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship, Krishna was one of the most successful leaders of his time.
He served as the Chief Minister of Karnataka from 1999 to 2004, during which he played a key role in transforming Bengaluru into a global IT hub. His tenure as External Affairs Minister from 2009 to 2012 under the UPA government further cemented his reputation as an eminent politician. He also held the positions of Governor of Maharashtra (2004–2008) and Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly (1989–1993).
Joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2017
Krishna, a Congress veteran, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2017 citing ideological differences. He remained a leader in Karnataka politics till his retirement. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2023.
Krishna’s commitment to public service and his vision for Karnataka left an indelible mark on the governance and development of the state. Despite staying away from active politics, his connection with the cultural heritage of Karnataka remained strong.
As Chief Minister, Krishna played an important role in making Karnataka, especially Bengaluru, a major center of the IT sector. His efforts led to Bengaluru being recognized as a global IT hub. There were many challenges during his tenure, such as the kidnapping of Dr. Rajkumar by Veerappan and violent protests in the state due to the Cauvery water dispute.
S.M. Krishna will always be remembered for his vision and development work, especially in taking the IT sector to new heights in Bengaluru and Karnataka.
