Tue Dec 10 11:56:25 UTC 2024: ## Former Karnataka CM and External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Passes Away at 92

**Bengaluru, India** – S.M. Krishna, former Chief Minister of Karnataka and India’s External Affairs Minister, passed away late Monday night at the age of 92. He breathed his last at his residence in Bengaluru after a prolonged illness. The Karnataka government has declared a three-day state mourning in his honor.

Krishna’s body will be taken to his native village, Maddur, on Tuesday morning for public viewing until 3 PM, followed by a state funeral at 4 PM, Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar announced.

Remembered for his pivotal role in developing Bengaluru’s IT industry and establishing “Brand Bengaluru” internationally, Krishna’s political career spanned decades. He began as an independent MLA and rose through the ranks, narrowly missing the opportunity to become Prime Minister in 2004, according to a revelation by former PM Manmohan Singh. Singh reportedly considered Krishna as a potential successor.

Krishna’s illustrious career included stints as Karnataka’s Chief Minister (1999-2004), Governor of Maharashtra (2004-2008), and External Affairs Minister in the UPA government (2009-2012). He was also a Fulbright scholar, having earned a postgraduate degree in law from the United States. He served as the Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly and Deputy Chief Minister before becoming CM. In 2017, he joined the BJP, and in 2023, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan.

Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Krishna’s tireless efforts and contributions to infrastructure development in Karnataka. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah highlighted Krishna’s unique service and invaluable contribution to the state’s IT sector. Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu remembered Krishna as a true leader who always prioritized the welfare of his people. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also mourned his passing, acknowledging Krishna’s significant role in shaping Karnataka’s growth.

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