Tue Dec 10 04:28:10 UTC 2024: ## Former Karnataka Chief Minister S.M. Krishna Passes Away at 92

**Bengaluru, December 10, 2024** – Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna, former Chief Minister of Karnataka and a prominent figure in Indian politics, passed away today at the age of 92. Krishna, known for his modern outlook and administrative skills, carved a significant niche in the nation’s political landscape.

His career spanned nearly five decades, holding key positions including External Affairs Minister, Governor of Maharashtra, Chief Minister of Karnataka, Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, and various ministerial roles within the Karnataka government. He played a crucial role in the growth of Karnataka’s IT and BT industries, helping establish “Brand Bengaluru” on the international stage. A reformist known for his development focus, he navigated several crises during his tenure as Chief Minister, including the kidnapping of Kannada actor Dr. Raj Kumar and severe drought.

Despite leading his party to defeat in the 2004 assembly elections, he later served as Governor of Maharashtra and External Affairs Minister. Many believe that a win in 2004 could have propelled him to the Prime Minister’s post, a possibility he acknowledged in his autobiography, *Smrithivaahini*.

Beyond his political achievements, Krishna was known for his suave personality, impeccable dress sense, and soft-spoken nature. He implemented various development schemes, including the Jalasamvardhane project and Yashaswini health insurance scheme, though his efforts to promote Bengaluru often overshadowed these rural initiatives. He also strengthened the Karnataka Lokayukta institution. Later in his career, he joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Krishna maintained a lifelong association with *The Hindu*, recalling in his autobiography how the newspaper was a daily fixture in his childhood home. His personality was also shaped by his time at the Ramakrishna Ashrama and his admiration for John F. Kennedy, whom he even campaigned for in the 1962 US presidential election. He was an avid tennis player and music enthusiast, finding solace in both during times of political stress. Krishna’s death marks the end of a long and influential career in Indian politics.

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