Former Chief Minister SM Krishna, 90, died in Karnataka early Tuesday morning, and the nation turned sombre. Krishna, widely mourned as a stalwart in Indian politics, left a legacy of tributes pouring in from all corners of the political spectrum. The Karnataka government on Wednesday declared a public holiday for educational institutions and government offices in his honour.
Public Funeral and Public Holiday
The Karnataka government has proclaimed three days of state mourning in tribute to the veteran leader. The ban on public entertainment programs is meanwhile nationwide, and the national flag is to be flown at half-mast on all government buildings. Wednesday is a public holiday so that people can pay their respects and attend ceremonies.
Full state honours will be accorded at KR Krishna’s last rites held in his hometown Maddur on Wednesday. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, a family relative of SM Krishna, is overseeing arrangements for the funeral.
A Legacy of Leadership
SM Krishna was a giant among giant from the political personages of Karnataka, whose vision and infrastructural development focus brought Karnataka forward during his time as Chief Minister. Besides Karnataka, he served as governor of Maharashtra and Indian external affairs minister. SM Krishna was a revered and respected leader despite his age-related health challenges of the past few years.
They joined in expressing grief over his demise, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “Shri SM Krishna Ji was a remarkable leader who had earned the love and admiration of people from all walks of life,” PM Modi wrote in a heartfelt post on X. Throughout his life he was always working tirelessly to better the lives of others. Karnataka’s Chief Minister is fondly remembered for bringing infrastructural development to Karnataka’s front and centre and for his leadership.”
I have had the privilege of meeting Shri SM Krishna Ji multiple times during the years, and I will always cherish those interactions, the Prime Minister also reminisced. I am sad to announce his passing. I send my sympathies to his family and fans. Om Shanti.”
A Moment of Reflection
Karnataka politics comes to a close with the passing of SM Krishna. It is an occasion that reflects upon his immortal contributions to the state’s development and his legacy in the nation’s politics as citizen, leader and admirer gather to say goodbye to the veteran politician. It is a declared public holiday for the people of Karnataka to hence honour his memory and allow his legacy to live on by inspiring generations to come.
Om Shanti.
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