New Delhi: In a significant move, the Supreme Court has introduced a new statue of Lady Justice that departs from its traditional form. The familiar blindfold, which has long represented impartiality in justice, has been removed, and in its place stands a figure with open eyes, reflecting the idea that the law in India is not blind. Additionally, the statue now holds the Constitution instead of the usual sword, symbolising that justice in the country is administered through the lens of constitutional values rather than punishment.

This change has been introduced under the leadership of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud. The decision is seen as a break from the colonial-era depiction of Lady Justice, which typically portrayed her blindfolded with scales and a sword. The removal of the blindfold is meant to reflect the evolving nature of justice in modern India, where fairness is grounded in awareness and equality for all citizens.

The new statue, installed in the judges' library of the Supreme Court, emphasises that justice is dispensed with a clear vision, ensuring that constitutional principles guide legal decisions. While the scales of justice remain intact, representing fairness, the substitution of the sword with the Constitution highlights the judiciary's commitment to upholding the rights and freedoms guaranteed to all under the law.

This transformation of Lady Justice's figure mirrors broader efforts to reform and modernise India's legal system, shedding remnants of its colonial past and embracing a justice system that is both vigilant and rooted in the country's own democratic ideals.

BI Bureau