Tue Dec 10 05:17:18 UTC 2024: ## Veteran Indian Politician and Former Foreign Minister S.M. Krishna Passes Away at 92

**Bengaluru, India** – S.M. Krishna, a prominent figure in Indian politics, passed away at the age of 92 early this morning at his residence in Sadashivanagar, Bengaluru. Krishna, who served as Karnataka’s Chief Minister and India’s External Affairs Minister, had been battling age-related ailments and a recent respiratory infection.

He was initially admitted to Vydehi Hospital before being transferred to Manipal Hospital due to the severity of his respiratory infection. Despite receiving intensive care, he succumbed to his illness around 2:30 AM.

Born on May 1, 1932, in Somanahalli village, Mandya district of Karnataka, Krishna’s political career spanned several decades. He entered politics in 1962, winning the Maddur Assembly constituency as an independent candidate before joining the Praja Socialist Party. He later made a significant mark in national politics after winning the Mandya Lok Sabha seat in a by-election. He served as a Member of Parliament on three occasions, representing Mandya and establishing himself as a key figure within the Indian National Congress.

Krishna’s political career peaked with his role as the 16th Chief Minister of Karnataka (1999-2004) and later as India’s External Affairs Minister (2009-2012) under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s government. His “Panchajanya Yatra” during the 1999 Assembly elections played a crucial role in leading the Congress party to victory. He also served as the Governor of Maharashtra.

In later years, Krishna joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2017 after resigning from the Congress. He announced his retirement from active politics in January 2023. His autobiography, “Smriti Vahini,” published in December 2019, details his political journey and insights into significant events during his career.

Krishna is survived by his daughters. His passing marks the end of an era in Karnataka and Indian politics. Tributes have begun pouring in from across the political spectrum, acknowledging his significant contributions to the nation.

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