People of Karnataka in particular and Indians in general would have heard enough encomiums written about one of the most charismatic, elegant, confident, and dignified politicians that the country has ever seen. That’s none other than the ex-Chief Minister, Union Minister, Governor, and a person who held various positions in the government in a career spanning more than 50 years. Yes, I am referring to none other than Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna who passed away recently at the ripe age of 92 years. SM Krishna will always remain synonymous with development, foresight, visionary zeal, compassion, patience, and empathy for the last man standing. He was one of the tallest leaders of Karnataka, if not India for contributing immensely all these years.
PC:Mint
- The biggest accolade and credit should accrue to Krishna for transforming the once sleepy, salubrious, and serene Bengaluru into today’s Silicon Valley of India by opening the doors of the city for revolutionary information technology to take root permanently. He was not only well educated, erudite, prudent, and polished individual with an overseas educational qualification to boot but also rooted to the ground fully versed with the pulse of the people. During his chief ministership, Bengaluru, Karnataka, and in turn, India blossomed into one of the most important forces to reckon with for the then-blossoming information technology to flourish exponentially. The number of initiatives introduced by SM Krishna bears testimony to his visionary viewpoint.
PC:Mint
- Krishna is credited for ushering in much talked about Bangalore Agenda Task Force (BATF) consisting of some of the best technical and business minds to recommend introducing pathbreaking infrastructure measures for the city. IT and Biotechnology received an immense boost under his stewardship firmly establishing Bengaluru as a pioneer in the field. He is also credited with introducing/initiating a slew of measures vis-à-vis flyovers, underpasses, free mid-day meal schemes for government students, Bengaluru International Airport Limited, and many epoch-making administrative moves in Bengaluru and Karnataka. Amid all the hustle and bustle, he was also credited for encouraging arts, culture, music, and his passion for tennis.
PM:KalingaTV
- Of course, his administration from 1999 to 2004 was also known for the challenging times that the state witnessed. Especially the kidnapping of Kannada film Thespian Dr. Rajkumar by the forest brigand Veerappan proved to be one of the most challenging episodes that took a toll on his reputation. It made matters even worse since the state witnessed three years of severe drought during this phase. That Krishna could manage to wriggle out of the tight situation exemplifies the political and administrative acumen of the gentleman. However, he could not replicate the electoral success even after advancing the state polls in 2004 resulting in his resignation. His passing away draws curtains on a glorious political career. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
