Bengaluru - In a remarkable political career spanning over six decades, SM Krishna emerged as a transformative leader who played a significant role in Karnataka's political landscape and national governance.
Early Life and Education
SM Krishna's academic journey was distinguished, with a law degree from Bengaluru's Government Law College and further studies at prestigious international institutions including Southern Methodist University in Dallas and George Washington University in the USA. Before entering politics, he served as a professor of International Law at Renukacharya Law College in Bangalore.
Political Milestones
Krishna's political journey began with his first legislative assembly election in 1962. His parliamentary debut came in 1968 when he was elected to the Lok Sabha. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he held various ministerial positions, including minister for commerce, industries, and parliamentary affairs from 1972 to 1977.
His political prowess was evident when he served as the Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly from 1989 to 1992 and later became a Rajya Sabha member from 1996 to 1999.
Chief Ministership and 'Brand Bengaluru'
Krishna is most acclaimed for his tenure as Karnataka's Chief Minister from October 1999 to May 2004. During this period, he was instrumental in transforming Bengaluru into India's technology hub, often compared to California's Silicon Valley. His visionary leadership helped generate thousands of jobs in the IT sector and established what became known as 'Brand Bengaluru'.
National Leadership
Beyond state politics, Krishna served as the External Affairs Minister in the UPA government under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh from 2009 to 2012. He also represented India at international forums, including a delegation to the United Nations in 1982 and a Commonwealth Parliamentary Seminar in the United Kingdom in 1990.
Later Political Transitions
In a surprising move, Krishna ended his 46-year association with the Congress Party by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2017, citing the party's "state of confusion". Just before the 2023 Karnataka assembly elections, he announced his retirement from active politics.
Recognition
In recognition of his significant contributions, SM Krishna was conferred with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, in 2023.
Even in retirement, Krishna continues to advocate for Bengaluru's development. In 2022, he wrote to the then chief minister, suggesting the reconstitution of the Bangalore Agenda Task Force to protect and further develop the city's brand.
SM Krishna's political journey represents a remarkable narrative of public service, technological vision, and leadership that significantly shaped Karnataka's and India's political and economic landscape.