In a significant move aimed at modernizing the representation of justice, the Supreme Court of India has unveiled a new Lady Justice statue that discards the traditional blindfold. This striking change is designed to convey the message that “the law is not blind,” symbolizing a more transparent and constitutionally driven approach to justice in the country.
The newly unveiled statue replaces the sword, which has long been a feature in the depiction of Lady Justice, with the Constitution now firmly held in one hand. This transformation seeks to reflect the belief that justice should not only be equitable but also rooted in the constitutional framework, moving away from punitive representations of the law.
Traditionally, Lady Justice has been portrayed as a woman wearing a blindfold, symbolizing impartiality and equality before the law. The blindfold represented the ideal that justice should be dispensed without bias, regardless of an individual’s wealth, power, or social status. The scales in her other hand indicated balance and fairness, while the sword represented the law’s authority. However, the new statue embodies a progressive vision for justice in India, emphasizing the importance of constitutional adherence over merely punitive measures.
According to sources, Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud advocated for this change, stressing the need for the statue to embody the principles of the Constitution rather than the violent connotations of the sword. “The sword is a symbol of violence, but courts deliver justice according to constitutional laws,” the source noted, highlighting the intention behind the statue’s design.
Standing tall at the judges’ library in the Supreme Court, the new Lady Justice statue not only represents a departure from colonial legacies but also serves as a reminder that the legal system in India is committed to fairness, equity, and constitutional values. This change is part of a broader effort to reshape the narrative surrounding justice and law in contemporary India, marking a significant step towards an inclusive and just society.
The unveiling of the statue has sparked conversations about the evolving nature of justice in India, inviting reflections on how symbols and representations can shape public perception of the legal system. As the nation moves forward, this new depiction of Lady Justice stands as a beacon of hope for a justice system that prioritizes constitutional integrity and the well-being of all citizens.
Sources By Agencies