SM Krishna, who had been with the Congress for more than 45 years, quit the grand old party and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2017.
Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna, a prominent Indian politician who served as both the Chief Minister of Karnataka and the External Affairs Minister of India, passed away at the age of 93 in Bengaluru on November 14, 2023. Known for his significant contributions to Karnataka's development, Krishna was also recognized for his diplomatic efforts during his tenure as External Affairs Minister from 2009 to 2012 under the UPA government. His political journey began with the Congress party, but he later joined the BJP in 2017. Krishna's death was mourned by political leaders across parties, who remembered him for his gentle demeanor, administrative acumen, and his role in enhancing India's foreign relations, particularly with the United States. His legacy includes the establishment of the Bangalore International Airport and numerous infrastructure projects in Karnataka.