NEWS – The Supreme Court of India has unveiled a redesigned ‘Lady Justice’ statue.

HIGHLIGHTS

Symbolic Change: Blindfold Removed

• Blindfold Removal: The traditional blindfold, symbolizing impartiality, has been removed.
  • CJI DY Chandrachud emphasized that “the law is not blind; it sees everyone equally.”
• Judiciary’s Evolving Identity: The updated statue signifies a shift away from colonial symbols.
• Contemporary Interpretation: The removal aligns with a modern view of justice that upholds constitutional values.

Constitution in Place of Sword

• Replacement of Sword: The sword in ‘Lady Justice’s’ left hand has been replaced with the Constitution.
  • This symbolizes a balanced approach to justice, emphasizing constitutional rights over punishment.
• Retained Scales of Justice: The scales remain unchanged, representing fairness and impartial weighing of evidence.

A Step Away from Colonial Tradition

• Breaking Free from Colonial Legacy: The redesign coincides with broader reforms, including the overhaul of colonial-era laws.
  • CJI Chandrachud advocates for moving beyond British-era traditions.
• Constitution as Source of Justice: The statue symbolizes that justice is based on constitutional principles rather than punitive power.

Retaining the Scales of Justice

• Balance in Society: The scales of justice highlight the importance of weighing facts and arguments impartially.
• Recent Reforms: The redesign aligns with efforts to modernize India’s legal system, such as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.