You kept a balance between judiciary, executive and parliament with a spine: Teary-eyed Dushyant Dave on outgoing CJI

New Delhi: Senior advocate Dushyant Dave broke into tears on Friday while bidding adieu to outgoing Chief Justice N V Ramana, saying he maintained checks and balances between the judiciary, executive and the parliament and did so "with a spine".

Dave got emotional before the ceremonial bench comprising Chief Justice N.V. Ramana and Justices U.U. Lalit and Hima Kohli, and a room packed with lawyers. Dave said, "You have been a citizens' judge. And, I speak on behalf of citizens of this country...you upheld the rights; you upheld the Constitution...your lordship excelled our expectations...you did what really is expected to be done by this institution," and he broke down in open court.

Dave said justice Ramana maintained checks and balances, which were required, and "blessed this country with amazing constitutional morality and constitutional ethos".

With tears-filled eyes, Dave said he was very satisfied that Juswith tice Ramana is leaving this court in the great hands of justice U.U. Lalit and the judges who were to follow. "And, I have no doubt, the kind of culture, the kind of atmosphere, and the kind of power you have given to this institution...will be strengthened further...I wish you lots of good luck," said Dave.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, while bidding farewell to the CJI, said even in turbulent times, he ensured the dignity and integrity of the court and called the government to answer.

"When the sea is calm, the ship will sail. We are going through very turbulent times. It is difficult for the ship to sail. This court will remember you for maintaining balance even in turbulent times. You have ensured that the dignity and integrity of this court are maintained. That the government is called to answer," Mr Sibal said.

Attorney General K.K. Venugopal said it was difficult for him to believe that such a young person like him will be retiring, and added this is not the age when a CJI should be retiring.

Justice Ramana is retiring on Friday day after a tenure of nearly eight years at the Supreme Court.

As per the custom, Justice Raman shared the bench with Chief Justice-designate Justice U.U. Lalit on his last working day. Justice Lalit has been recently appointed as the 49th Chief Justice of India. He will take over after the retirement of CJI Ramana.