Modi leads tributes as Karnataka ex-CM passes away

SM Krishna, former Karnataka chief minister and a veteran politician, passed away on Tuesday in Bengaluru after a prolonged illness. He was 93.

Krishna was suffering from age-related ailments.

He was admitted to the Vaidehi Hospital and later shifted to the Manipal Hospital following a lung infection. He was treated at the ICU recently. He breathed his last at his residence in Sadashivanagar.

He is survived by his wife Prema and two daughters. The late VG Siddhartha, founder of Cafe Coffee Day, was his son-in-law.

Krishna’s grandson is married to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s daughter.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences on Krishna’s death.

The prime minister said he had many opportunities to interact with Krishna over the years, and will always cherish those interactions.

“I am deeply saddened by his passing. My condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

Modi further wrote on X handle, “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.”

President Droupadi Murmu condoled Krishna’s death. “Sad to learn about the demise of Shri SM Krishna who served people in various capacities during his long career in public life - from a member of the state assembly and of parliament to a union minister and governor. As chief minister of Karnataka, he earned people’s affection for his commitment to development of the state. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers.”

Shivakumar said the mortal remains of Krishna will be kept for public viewing at his residence in Sadashivanagar throughout the day on Tuesday.

His final rites will be conducted on Wednesday morning at Somanahalli in Maddur, Mandya district, his birthplace, Shivakumar stated.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, “I am shocked by the demise of former Chief Minister SM Krishna. His service to the state and the nation, both as a Union Minister and as the Chief Minister, is unparalleled. Karnataka will forever remain indebted to him, particularly for his contributions to the growth of the IT-BT sectors during his tenure as chief minister.”

Indo-Asian News Service