S M Krishna: Leader, statesman, visionary

S M Krishna, former Chief Minister of Karnataka, Governor of Maharashtra, and External Affairs Minister, passed away at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of political resilience, administrative acumen, and a lasting influence on the state’s growth trajectory. His career spanned six decades beginning in 1962 as an independent MLA from Maddur, before aligning with the Praja Socialist Party and later, the Congress. In a move that stunned many, he joined the BJP – a party that was at ideological odds with his lifelong beliefs – in his final years. As Chief Minister from 1999 to 2004, he was instrumental in transforming Bengaluru into one of the world’s leading IT and biotechnology hubs, cementing its reputation as India’s Silicon City. Krishna was a leader known for his forward-thinking approach, charisma, and modern outlook. He was the first Chief Minister to use email for official purposes, demonstrating his adaptability to the emerging digital age. His suave personality was reflected in his impeccable dress sense and his passion for tennis. A regular at the Wimbledon Championships, Krishna’s cosmopolitan persona stood in sharp contrast to his strong grass-roots connections.

However, Krishna’s public life was not without its share of turbulence. His tenure as Chief Minister was marked by the abduction of Kannada film legend Dr Rajkumar by notorious forest brigand Veerappan in 2000, followed by the murder of former Minister H Nagappa. His decision to lead a padayatra from Bengaluru to Mysuru in defiance of the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Cauvery water dispute led to a contempt charge, but it also consolidated his image as a leader who is willing to fight for the interests of the people. These crises notwithstanding, Krishna’s leadership was widely respected and he was once hailed as the ‘Best Chief Minister of India’, by a national magazine. Despite his remarkable achievements, the Congress party led by him suffered a crushing defeat in the 2004 Assembly elections.

What distinguished Krishna was his ability to maintain a steadfast dignity and grace even in the face of adversity, earning respect for his polite, yet firm leadership. A master of political finesse, his charming persona endeared him to colleagues and adversaries alike. His contribution to Karnataka’s progress, both as a leader and a statesman, will continue to resonate for years to come. Karnataka has lost a visionary leader in his passing, but his impact on the state’s landscape will be remembered for generations to come.