Source: Times of India  

Introduction 

The Supreme Court of India has unveiled a new version of the Lady Justice statue that breaks from tradition. Previously Justice lady worn a blindfold and holds a sword, this new statue shows Lady Justice with open eyes and holds the Constitution instead of a sword. This change was ordered by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud to show that justice in India is not blind but sees everyone equally.

What are the Origins and Symbolism of Lady Justice in Legal Systems? 

• About: 
  • Justice Lady was first introduced by Roman Emperor Augustus, who considered justice one of the important virtues to uphold 
  • Goddess figure evolved into an allegory (symbolic representation) of justice in legal systems 
• Traditional Symbols and Their Meanings: 
  • Scales: Represent weighing evidence from both parties in disputes 
  • Blindfold: Was added much later, in the 16th century  
    • Interestingly, the blindfold was initially meant as satire 
    • Later, it was reinterpreted to symbolize impartiality 
  • Toga: Represents the philosophical attitude of the Greco-Roman world 
  • Sword: Symbolizes authority and power (though some modern interpretations, like India's new statue, view it as representing violence) 
• The statue has evolved over time with different cultures adapting its symbolism 

What were the Major Changes Made to Justics Lady? 

• Removal of Blindfold: 
  • The traditional blindfold has been removed 
  • This change symbolizes that "law is not blind" but rather "sees everyone equally" 
  • Represents a shift from the colonial concept that justice should be blind 
• Replacement of Sword: 
  • The traditional sword has been removed 
  • Replaced with the Indian Constitution 
  • This change was made because:  
    • The sword was seen as a symbol of violence 
    • Constitution represents justice through legal framework rather than punishment 
    • Emphasizes constitutional values over punitive measures 
• Cultural Adaptation: 
  • The statue now wears a saree instead of traditional Western attire 
  • This  represents India's cultural identity 
  • Installed in the Supreme Court library 
• Retained Elements: 
  • The scales remain unchanged in the right hand 
    • Continue to symbolize balance and fairness in justice 
    • Represent the weighing of evidence from both sides 

What is the Purpose of the Changes to the Lady Justice Statue? 

• Moving Away from Colonial Legacy: 
  • Breaking free from British-era symbols and traditions 
  • Creating a distinctly Indian identity in the legal system 
  • Part of broader reforms to move away from colonial-era laws and symbols 
• Changing the Perception of Justice: 
  • Emphasizing that "law is not blind" but "sees everyone equally" 
  • Shifting from punitive justice to constitutional justice 
  • Showing that courts make conscious, informed decisions rather than blind ones 
• Modernizing Legal Symbolism: 
  • Aligning with contemporary interpretations of justice 
  • Making justice symbols more relevant to modern India 
  • Reflecting the evolution of India's legal framework 
  • Emphasizing Constitutional Values: 
• Replacing the sword with the Constitution shows:  
  • Focus on constitutional principles over punishment 
  • Courts deliver justice based on constitutional laws 
  • Importance of legal framework in delivering justice 
• Cultural Representation: 
  • Incorporating Indian elements (like the saree) shows:  
    • Recognition of India's cultural identity 
    • Moving away from Western symbolism 
    • Creating a more relatable symbol for Indian citizens 

How do Constitutional Values Shape Modern Indian Identity and Legal Philosophy? 

• Focus on Constitutional Values: 
  • Constitution replaces sword as symbol of authority 
  • Justice based on constitutional principles rather than punishment 
  • Emphasis on equality and fairness under law 
• Modern Identity: 
  • Moving away from colonial-era symbols and laws 
  • Developing distinctly Indian legal framework 
  • Incorporating Indian cultural elements 
• Changed Philosophy: 
  • Justice that "sees everyone equally" rather than "blind justice" 
  • Balance between rights and responsibilities 
  • Transparent and conscious decision-making 
• Core Principles: 
  • Equal treatment for all citizens 
  • Justice guided by Constitution 
  • Fairness in legal proceedings 
  • Blend of modern approach with Indian values 

Conclusion  

The new Lady Justice statue represents India's move away from colonial-era symbols and towards its own identity in the legal system. By replacing the sword with the Constitution and removing the blindfold, it shows that modern Indian justice is not about punishment but about ensuring fairness and equality based on constitutional values. This change is part of a larger effort to modernize India's legal system while maintaining the core principle that justice should be balanced and fair for all.