The Supreme Court of India unveiled a redesigned 'Lady Justice' statue on October 17, eschewing some key elements like the blindfold and the sword. The changes have been made to exemplify India's contemporary identity and dynamic legal system. The new statue, installed in the judges' library, symbolises the judiciary’s commitment to this perspective.
India's New Lady Justice
India got a new Lady Justice that signals a big shift from colonial symbols. This comes months after the nation implemented renewed criminal codes like the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The changes were made at the behest of the Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud.
The blindfold is off!
— Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) October 16, 2024
The new Lady Justice in the supreme court now stands with open eyes & holds the Constitution instead of a sword ⭐⭐⭐
Ending the colonial representation of Indian law & justice, this new statue now signals- law is not blind, nor does it represent… pic.twitter.com/kg6Cw2EUHQ
The redesigned statue stands tall as a symbol of evolution while upholding the salient essence of Indian law. The new statue has no blindfold, which was supposed to signify impartiality in law. "The law is not blind; it sees everyone equally," emphasised CJI Chandrachud.
According to NDTV sources, the sword in the previous Lady Justice statue's hand has also been replaced with the Constitution of India. "The sword is a symbol of violence but courts deliver justice according to constitutional laws," the unnamed source told the outlet.
Law is not blind. It took 70 years for our judiciary system to say that we are not blind. This indicates major and drastic decisions might take place in our judiciary system.
— Chay 🚩 (@UddJaaPerindeyy) October 17, 2024
Lady of justice then Lady of justice now pic.twitter.com/vPCmZPgbvx
The Constitution signifies that the law dispenses justice according to the constitutional laws. The scales of justice on the right hand remain unchanged as they represent balance in society and the idea that arguments from both sides are heard and weighed before an order is passed.