The iconic statue of ‘Lady Justice,’ traditionally depicted with a blindfold, has been transformed in a significant move by the Supreme Court of India. In a bold departure from the past, the blindfold has been removed, and the sword she once held has been replaced with the Constitution, signaling a new era for the Indian judiciary.
This change, championed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, reflects a shift away from colonial-era symbols and highlights the evolving nature of justice in India. The updated statue has been installed in the judges’ library of the Supreme Court, symbolizing a break from its British legacy.
Previously, ‘Lady Justice’ was portrayed with a sword in one hand, representing punishment, while her other hand held scales to signify fairness. The new design retains the scales but replaces the sword with the Constitution, emphasizing that justice in India is grounded in constitutional principles that uphold equality for all.
CJI Chandrachud emphasized the importance of this transformation, stating, “The law is not blind; it sees everyone equally.” This new representation of ‘Lady Justice’ embodies the commitment to justice based on constitutional values, while the scales continue to symbolize impartiality. This initiative marks a significant step in redefining the identity of the Indian judiciary.
