Former Karnataka Chief Minister S. M. Krishna Dies at 93, State Announces Holiday

Bengaluru, Dec 10 (NationPress) S. M. Krishna, who served as the former Chief Minister of Karnataka and also held the position of External Affairs Minister, has passed away in Bengaluru on Tuesday due to a prolonged illness. He was 93 years old.

The government of Karnataka has declared a holiday on Wednesday in honor of the esteemed leader.

His remains will be made available for public viewing at his residence in Sadashivanagar on Tuesday, before being transported to Somanahalli in Maddur, Mandya district, where he was born, for final rites at 8 a.m. on Wednesday.

Krishna had been dealing with age-related health issues and was initially admitted to Vydehi Hospital before being moved to Manipal Hospital because of a lung infection. He had recently been in the ICU and passed away at his home in Sadashivanagar.

He is survived by his wife Prema and two daughters.

President Droupadi Murmu expressed her condolences, stating: "I am saddened to hear of the passing of S. M. Krishna, who devoted his life to serving the public in various roles, from a member of the state Assembly to a union minister and governor. As Chief Minister of Karnataka, he earned the love of the people for his dedication to the state's progress. My heartfelt sympathies to his family and followers."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over Krishna's passing, recalling the numerous interactions they had over the years, which he will always cherish.

PM Modi noted on his X handle, "S. M. Krishna was a distinguished leader, respected by individuals from all backgrounds. He tirelessly worked to enhance the lives of others. His tenure as Karnataka's Chief Minister is fondly remembered, especially for his emphasis on infrastructure development. He was also an avid reader and thinker."

Former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda remarked, "I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friend and longtime political associate S.M. Krishna. We embarked on our political journeys around the same time, albeit with differing approaches to governance and development. Om Shanti."

Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy expressed his sorrow over the passing of the veteran leader, noting his distinguished service in various high-ranking positions, including Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Deputy Chief Minister, Chief Minister, Union Minister, and Governor, highlighting his significant contributions to both the state and the nation.

"On a personal note, his loss brings me profound grief. I pray for his soul to find eternal peace and that God provides strength to his family, supporters, and the citizens of the state during this difficult time," Kumaraswamy added.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi remembered Krishna as a model politician.

Expressing his sorrow over the demise of the Padma Vibhushan recipient, who served as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, the External Affairs Minister, and Governor of Maharashtra, Joshi noted that Krishna was recognized for his calm demeanor and gentlemanly leadership.

He highlighted Krishna's status as a senior leader and a role model for all in politics. Joshi prayed for divine strength for Krishna's family and loved ones to cope with this loss.

Former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa said, "I am deeply saddened by the passing of the esteemed leader, former Chief Minister, Union Minister, and dear friend, S.M. Krishna. A true statesman and stalwart, his significant contributions to our nation and Karnataka will always be remembered. I feel a profound personal loss. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this challenging time."

As the President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, Krishna led the party to a resounding victory in 1999. He held the office of Chief Minister of Karnataka from 1999 to 2004 and served as the Governor of Maharashtra from 2004 to 2008. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha and became the External Affairs Minister in the cabinet of then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

In 2017, Krishna severed ties with the Congress party and joined the BJP, though he maintained a low political profile.

He announced his retirement from politics on January 7, 2023.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his shock at the passing of former Chief Minister S.M. Krishna, acknowledging that his service to both the state and the nation, both as a Union Minister and Chief Minister, was unparalleled. Karnataka will always be grateful for his contributions to the growth of the IT and biotechnology sectors during his tenure as Chief Minister.

"A seasoned statesman, Krishna was a leader without enemies. During my early days in the Congress party, he was my mentor and always a well-wisher," the Chief Minister remarked.

"Krishna's vision, disciplined lifestyle, noble character, and scholarly nature serve as an example for aspiring politicians. I share in the sorrow of his family and supporters who are mourning his loss. I pray that his soul finds peace," CM Siddaramaiah concluded.

BJP State President and MLA B. Y. Vijayendra offered his deep condolences, stating that the party has lost a guiding light with the passing of senior BJP leader and former Chief Minister S.M. Krishna.

Born in the village of Somanahalli in Maddur Taluk, Mandya district, Karnataka, Krishna completed his primary education in his hometown, followed by secondary education at Sri Ramakrishna Vidyashala in Mysuru. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Maharaja's College, Mysuru, and earned his law degree from University Law College. Additionally, he acquired degrees from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and George Washington University Law School in Washington.

He is remembered for his pivotal role in promoting the information technology (IT) and biotechnology (BT) sectors, as well as for elevating Bengaluru to its status as the IT capital of the country. He is also credited with placing the Brand Bengaluru on the global stage.