Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid tribute to former Karnataka chief minister SM Krishna, calling him a remarkable leader admired by people from all walks of life.

“Shri SM Krishna Ji was a remarkable leader, admired by people from all walks of life. He always worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others. He is fondly remembered for his tenure as Karnataka’s Chief Minister, particularly for his focus on infrastructural development. Shri SM Krishna Ji was also a prolific reader and thinker,” Prime Minister Modi wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Known for his efforts to promote ‘Brand Bengaluru,’ veteran politician Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna, or SM Krishna passed away at the age of 92 on Tuesday.

Family members said that the former external affairs minister was ailing for quite some time. He breathed his last at 2.45 am at his residence.

Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna is survived by his wife Prema and two daughters Shambhavi and Malavika.

“I have had many opportunities to interact with Shri SM Krishna Ji over the years, and I will always cherish those interactions. I am deeply saddened by his passing. My condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” PM Modi said earlier in a post.

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