S.M. Krishna’s passing marks the end of an era in Karnataka politics

Bengaluru (The Uttam Hindu): S.M. Krishna the former Karnataka Chief Minister and veteran politician passed away on Tuesday in Bengaluru at the age of 93 following a prolonged illness. He had been suffering from age-related health issues and was admitted to Vaidehi Hospital before being transferred to Manipal Hospital due to a lung infection. Despite treatment in the ICU he passed away at his residence in Sadashivanagar. Krishna is survived by his wife Prema two daughters and his late son-in-law V.G. Siddhartha founder of Cafe Coffee Day. His grandson is married to Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s daughter and Krishna was known to be a political mentor to Shivakumar. President Droupadi Murmu expressed her condolences recalling Krishna’s long and impactful public career. “Sad to learn about the demise of Shri S. M. Krishna, who served the people in various capacities from a member of the state assembly and parliament to a Union Minister and Governor. As Chief Minister of Karnataka he earned the affection of the people for his commitment to the state's development,” she said, extending heartfelt condolences to his family.Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shared his sorrow mentioning that he had numerous interactions with Krishna over the years that he would always cherish. “I am deeply saddened by his passing. My condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” Modi wrote. In a separate post on his X handle the PM hailed Krishna as a "remarkable leader admired by people from all walks of life" and noted his significant contributions especially in infrastructure development as Karnataka's Chief Minister.Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar confirmed that Krishna’s mortal remains would be kept at his Sadashivanagar residence for public viewing on Tuesday. The final rites will take place on Wednesday morning at Somanahalli in Maddur, Mandya district Krishna's birthplace. Krishna’s political legacy includes his tenure as the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President in 1999 when he led the party to a major victory. He served as Karnataka's Chief Minister from 1999 to 2004, and later as the Governor of Maharashtra from 2004 to 2008. He also served as the Union Minister of External Affairs under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. In 2017 Krishna joined the BJP but kept a low profile. He announced his retirement from politics in January 2023.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep shock over Krishna’s passing praising his unparalleled service to both the state and nation. “Karnataka will forever remain indebted to him for his contributions to the IT-BT sectors which flourished under his leadership ” Siddaramaiah said, recalling Krishna's mentorship during his early days in politics. “Krishna’s disciplined life, vision, and scholarly nature remain exemplary,” he added, extending his condolences to Krishna’s family and supporters. BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra also mourned the loss, stating that Krishna’s demise marked the loss of a guiding force for the party. Krishna was honored with the Padma Vibhushan for his contributions to the country, especially in transforming Bengaluru into an IT hub. Vijayendra prayed for the strength to bear the loss and wished eternal peace for the departed soul.Krishna was born in Somanahalli, Mandya district, to a Vokkaliga family. He had an extensive education, studying in Mysuru and earning degrees from Southern Methodist University and George Washington University. He is remembered for his role in making Bengaluru the IT capital of India and for his contributions to the country's growth in the IT and BT sectors.