Vice President Ansari condoles passing away of Krishna Iyer

Vice President M. Hamid Ansari on Thursday condoled the passing away of eminent jurist and former Supreme Court judge VR Krishna Iyer, stating that he was a avowed champion of human rights and civil liberties.

"I am deeply saddened at the passing away of Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer... 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," Vice President Ansari said.

"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," he added.

Earlier in the day, the eminent jurist and former judge passed away at a private hospital in Kochi after reportedly succumbing to renal and cardiac failure.

Justice Iyer, known for his forthright views, had turned 100 recently. He was sworn in as a judge of the Supreme Court on July 17, 1973 and retired at the age of 65 on November 14, 1980.