NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed his condolences over the passing of former Karnataka chief minister SM Krishna, describing him as a “remarkable leader, prolific reader, and thinker.” SM Krishna passed away early Tuesday morning in Bengaluru at the age of 92.
Sharing a series of posts on X, PM Modi said, “Shri SM Krishna Ji was a remarkable leader, admired by people from all walks of life. He always worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others. He is fondly remembered for his tenure as Karnataka’s chief minister, particularly for his focus on infrastructural development. Shri SM Krishna Ji was also a prolific reader and thinker.”
Recalling his interactions with the former leader, 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.”
The Karnataka state government has declared three days of mourning following his demise. The last rites of SM Krishna will be conducted with full state honors, and during this period, no functions or celebrations will take place.
In a separate post on X, Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah said, “Saddened by the demise of former chief minister Shri SM Krishna. His unparalleled contributions as a union minister, chief minister, and leader have left an indelible mark.
Siddaramaiah praised the former leader for his pioneering leadership that revolutionised the IT-BT sector whilst serving as chief minister adding that, “Karnataka will forever remain indebted to him, especially for his visionary leadership in transforming the IT-BT sector during his tenure as chief minister. A statesman and a leader without adversaries, Shri Krishna was a guide and mentor to me during my early days in the Congress party and remained a well-wisher throughout.”
“His foresight, disciplined life, and kind nature are an inspiration for aspiring politicians. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers in this moment of grief. May his soul rest in peace,” he added.
SM Krishna was born on May 1, 1932, in Somanahalli, Mandya district, Karnataka. He is survived by his wife, Prema, and two daughters, Shambhavi and Malavika.
He began his political journey in 1962, winning the Maddur Assembly seat as an Independent. As a prominent Congress leader, Krishna served as Karnataka’s 16th chief minister from October 11, 1999, to May 28, 2004.
His illustrious career also included roles as the Governor of Maharashtra and as India’s external affairs minister in the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government from 2009 to 2012.
Earlier in January 2022, SM Krishna announced his retirement from active politics, citing age as the primary reason.