The political landscape of India mourns the loss of veteran statesman Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna, or SM Krishna, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 92. With over six decades of a glittering career, Krishna was an iconic figure in Indian politics, marked by visionary leadership, statesmanship, and an important role in establishing Bengaluru as a global technology and innovation hub.
Early Life and Education of SM Krishna
Born on May 1, 1932, at Somanahalli village in Maddur Taluka of Mandya, SC Mallaiah’s son SM Krishna has been a story of inspirational success from the small village of Karnataka to the top echelons of Indian politics. Krishna pursued his graduation from Maharaja’s College, Mysore, and later studied law at Government Law College, Bengaluru. He later went to the United States for further education at Southern Methodist University, Dallas, and George Washington University.
Krishna went back to India and worked as a professor of international law at Renukacharya Law College in Bangalore. This base in law and academics formed a good bedrock for his foray into public service and politics.
The Political Journey of SM Krishna
Krishna’s political career started in 1962 when he was first elected to the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. In 1968, he entered the national stage by winning a seat in the Lok Sabha, marking the start of his parliamentary journey. He was re-elected to the fifth Lok Sabha but chose to return to state politics in 1972.
During his stint in Karnataka, Krishna held some important positions. Between 1972 and 1977, he was the Minister for Commerce, Industries, and Parliamentary Affairs, which was a precursor to Karnataka’s future industrial development. During his stint as the Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly from 1989 to 1992, Krishna maintained decorum and efficiency in legislative proceedings.
He also served at the national level, as a Minister of State for Industry between 1983–84 and Minister of State for Finance between 1984–85. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 1996, and Krishna was there till 1999, when he quit as an upper house member.
The Chief Minister Who Redefined Karnataka (SM Krishna)
Krishna’s tenure as the Chief Minister of Karnataka (1999–2004) is considered to be the most defining phase of his political career. It was during this time that Bengaluru emerged as India’s Silicon Valley due to his visionary policies and focus on infrastructure development.
One of the significant projects he initiated was the Bangalore Agenda Task Force (BATF) in 1999. The BATF was composed of experts from various disciplines that formed a vision for Bengaluru’s development. Karnataka’s Bengaluru, during Krishna’s tenure, was not only a synonym for the flourishing IT industry but also home to large multinationals and generating thousands of jobs.
His emphasis on infrastructural modernization, good governance, and investor-friendly policies consolidated Bengaluru’s status as a global hub for the technology industry. SM Krishna’s promotion of ‘Brand Bengaluru’ helped improve the reputation of the city while contributing immensely to Karnataka’s economy.
In a letter to then Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai in 2022, Krishna underscored the need to protect and nurture ‘Brand Bengaluru.’ He suggested that the BATF be reconstituted to take up the challenges of the city and sustain its status on the global map.
National Leadership: Governor and External Affairs Minister
After his tenure as Chief Minister, Krishna continued to serve the nation as Governor of Maharashtra from 2004 to 2008. His administrative acumen and inclusive approach earned him respect across political lines.
In 2009, Krishna became the External Affairs Minister in the UPA government under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. His tenure was characterized by attempts to strengthen India’s global relationships and represent its interests on the international stage.
Krishna had earlier international experience when he was part of the Indian delegation to the United Nations in 1982 and attended the Commonwealth Parliamentary Seminar in the UK in 1990. These experiences enriched his contributions as External Affairs Minister, particularly in navigating the complexities of global diplomacy.
A Change in Political Allegiance
After a 46-year association with the Congress Party, Krishna made a surprising decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2017. Citing dissatisfaction with the Congress, which he described as being in a “state of confusion,” Krishna embraced the BJP’s vision. While his active political involvement waned in later years, his influence and counsel remained sought after in Karnataka’s political circles.
Just a few months ahead of the Karnataka assembly polls, Krishna announced his retirement from active politics, marking the end of an illustrious political journey in 2023.
Honors and Legacy of SM Krishna
In recognition of his immeasurable contributions to public affairs, Krishna was conferred the Padma Vibhushan in 2023, India’s second-highest civilian award. He was the testament to transforming impact that Karnataka witnessed, as he shaped modern India.
Krishna’s legacy is most profoundly felt in Bengaluru, a city he nurtured into a global innovation hub. His vision for Bengaluru as an international center for technology and entrepreneurship continues to inspire policymakers and business leaders.
Personal Life
SM Krishna married Prema Krishna and had two daughters, Malavika and Shambhavi. A simple man with deep roots for family, he tried to balance his political duties with being committed to family and roots.
Conclusion
SM Krishna’s death marks the end of an era in Indian politics. His six-decade-long career was a testament to his dedication to public service, his vision for progress, and his ability to adapt to the changing dynamics of governance.
It has left with Karnataka and India its invaluable contribution to ‘Brand Bengaluru’ and the Indian political scene. SM Krishna, through his innovative ideas, leadership, and integrity, has given the world something of great worth that will forever continue to inspire the masses.