Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar Mourns the Passing of S.M. Krishna, Remembers His Legacy
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Chief Minister S.M. Krishna, who passed away on Tuesday in Bengaluru after a prolonged illness at the age of 93. Shivakumar, who regarded Krishna as his political mentor, praised his extraordinary contributions to the state and the nation.
In his statement, Shivakumar described Krishna as a visionary and a learned politician, hailing him as a guiding star for Karnataka’s political landscape. “The loss of S.M. Krishna, my political mentor, has caused immense sorrow. A guiding star of Karnataka’s political landscape has fallen,” he said, recalling Krishna’s immense influence on his own political career.
Shivakumar further acknowledged Krishna’s remarkable achievements, particularly his transformative role in turning Bengaluru into the “Silicon City” and an IT hub. “Krishna’s leadership made Bengaluru globally recognized, significantly contributing to the nation’s economic growth,” Shivakumar emphasized.
Krishna’s impact extended beyond urban development. As Chief Minister, he was instrumental in laying the groundwork for key infrastructure projects like the Bengaluru Metro Rail and Devanahalli International Airport. He ensured a balanced development approach, fostering growth in both the industrial and agricultural sectors.
Shivakumar also highlighted Krishna’s ability to bring all political parties together for the greater good of Karnataka, recalling his unwavering commitment to the state’s development. “S.M. Krishna was a dedicated worker who always thought of the development of the state and the nation,” he said.
Paying tribute to Krishna’s leadership, Shivakumar reflected on his political acumen, noting that Krishna had fought for the state’s interests, even if it meant risking political power, particularly over the sensitive Cauvery water dispute. “The state has lost a son of the Cauvery,” he remarked.
In closing, Shivakumar prayed for Krishna’s soul to rest in peace and expressed condolences to his family, friends, supporters, and well-wishers, offering strength to bear this great loss.
Family sources confirmed that the final rites for S.M. Krishna would take place at the Café Coffee Day premises in Somanahalli, his birthplace. Preparations are underway at the site, where Krishna had spent quality time in the house he gifted to his late son-in-law, V.G. Siddhartha, the founder of Café Coffee Day.
Krishna’s passing marks the end of an era in Karnataka’s political history, leaving behind a lasting legacy of progress and unity.
