Former EAM and Karnataka CM, S M Krishna passes away at 92

Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna, the former External Affairs Minister and Chief Minister of Karnataka passed away at his Bengaluru residence early on Tuesday morning at 92 and had been suffering from age-related ailments.

S M Krishna was known for his intellectual acumen and administrative skills and had a stellar political career spanning over five decades.

Born on May 1, 1932, at Maddur, Karnataka, Krishna pursued his college education at Maharaja's College, Mysuru and later from the Government Law College in Bengaluru. Krishna obtained advanced degrees from Southern Methodist University, Texas and George Washington University, Washington, D.C. He was an alumnus of the renowned Fulbright Scholarship. One of the most academically accomplished leaders of his times, Krishna was an individual blessed with a multifaceted talent.

He served as the Chief Minister of Karnataka from 1999 to 2004, during which he was instrumental 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 a distinguished statesman. He also held the positions of Governor of Maharashtra (2004–2008) and Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly (1989–1993).

Initially a long-time Congress stalwart, Krishna joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2017, citing ideological differences and continued to remain a guiding figure in Karnataka politics until 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 state’s governance and development. Even after stepping back from active politics, his connection with Karnataka’s cultural heritage remained strong, as evidenced by his inauguration of the Mysuru Dasara festivities in 2021.