New Delhi: In a significant transformation, the iconic statue of ‘Lady Justice’, traditionally depicted with a blindfold, has been reimagined in New India. Marking a symbolic shift, the blindfold has been removed, and the sword once held in her hand has been replaced with the Constitution of India. This change aligns with the judiciary’s move to shed its colonial past and reflects the recent overhaul of British-era laws.
Blindfold Removed: Justice Sees All
The Supreme Court’s new emblem mirrors this bold update, where the ‘Lady Justice’ statue no longer wears the blindfold—a powerful statement that “justice is no longer blind.” Spearheaded by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, this reimagined figure symbolizes the evolving nature of Indian justice. The new statue has been installed in the judges’ library within the Supreme Court, representing a conscious break from colonial traditions.
Constitution Replaces the Sword
In its previous form, ‘Lady Justice’ wielded a sword, symbolizing authority and punishment, while the scales in her other hand stood for fairness. In this new version, the sword is replaced with the Constitution of India, reflecting that justice is now delivered through constitutional values, ensuring equality for all. The scales, however, remain intact, continuing to signify impartiality.
A Shift from Colonial Legacy
The decision to update the statue was motivated by a desire to move beyond India’s colonial legacy. As per sources, CJI Chandrachud remarked, “The law is not blind; it sees everyone equally.” The removal of the blindfold reinforces this vision, symbolizing a justice system guided by the principles of the Constitution, with fairness and equality at its core. Lady Justice’s new form embodies a justice that is both impartial and deeply rooted in India’s constitutional framework.
