President, Vice President condole passing away of Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer

President Pranab Mukherjee and Vice President M.H. Ansari have condoled the passing away of Shri Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer.

In a condolence message, the President has said, "It was with profound sorrow that I learnt of the passing away of Shri Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer.

As an eminent jurist, he used law as an instrument of social engineering and social change making justice accessible to all, including the marginalized and the vulnerable. He earned a reputation for his extraordinary knowledge of law. As a judge of the Supreme Court of India, he made immense contribution to the development of human rights jurisprudence. He will remain an inspiration for the members of legal fraternity.

His sad demise leaves a void which is difficult to fill. In his death, the nation has lost a great judicial statesman, whose long years in public service will be remembered for years to come".

Vice President Ansari said, ""I am deeply saddened at the passing away of Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer, an eminent jurist and former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, who was also a social reformer, an activist and a defender of public interest.

Justice Iyer served as Judge of the Kerala High Court and the Supreme Court of India with great distinction. While on the bench he came to be widely recognised through his judgements as an avowed champion of human rights and civil liberties. In his departure, the nation has lost a worthy son who came to be respected by all for his unwavering commitment to upholding the Rule of Law.

I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and friends of the departed soul. I pray to the Almighty to give them strength and fortitude to bear with their loss.