Supreme Court Unveils New ‘Lady Justice’ Statue Reflecting India’s Legal Values

The redesigned statue of Lady Justice at the Supreme Court sheds its traditional blindfold and sword, embracing the Indian Constitution and donning a sari, symbolizing justice with awareness and a commitment to constitutional principles.

The Supreme Court of India recently unveiled a newly designed Lady Justice statue on its premises, reflecting a deliberate shift in the portrayal of justice. Unlike the classic Western image of Lady Justice—often depicted as a blindfolded woman with scales in one hand and a sword in the other—India’s version now wears a sari, holds the Indian Constitution, and has removed the blindfold. This striking reinterpretation signifies a deeper connection to Indian culture and a renewed emphasis on the principles embedded within the Constitution.

Key Elements of the New ‘Lady Justice’ Statue

1. A Sari, Not a RobeThe new Lady Justice is draped in a traditional Indian sari, moving away from the Western-style robes historically associated with judicial figures. This change symbolizes a reclaiming of Indian cultural identity within the legal system, distancing the statue from its colonial legacy. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud emphasized the significance of this representation, affirming that the Indian judiciary can honor its roots while maintaining universal values of justice and fairness.

   
   

2. Removal of the BlindfoldIn a bold departure, the blindfold traditionally associated with Lady Justice has been removed. The blindfold, originally introduced during the Renaissance, was initially a satirical statement on the corrupt state of legal institutions. Over time, it came to signify impartiality, representing the idea that justice should be administered without bias, regardless of wealth, power, or social standing.

   
   

   However, the Supreme Court’s new Lady Justice statue sheds this element, highlighting that justice in India should be fully aware and attuned to the social realities of the people it serves. Chief Justice Chandrachud explained that “law is not blind; it sees everyone equally,” signifying a justice system that consciously recognizes and addresses each case with clarity and mindfulness rather than detachment.

   
   

3. The Scales of BalanceOne traditional feature remains—the scales of justice held in one hand, a universal emblem of fairness and balance. This element reflects the core function of courts: to weigh evidence impartially before delivering judgment. Retaining the scales is a reminder of the judiciary’s ongoing commitment to equality and unbiased decision-making, ensuring that all parties receive due consideration under the law.

   
   

4. The Constitution Replaces the SwordIn another symbolic shift, the new statue replaces the sword with the Indian Constitution. Traditionally, the sword has represented the power of the law, symbolizing both protection and punishment. Replacing it with the Constitution emphasizes that the judiciary’s ultimate allegiance is to India’s foundational legal document, which upholds democratic principles, individual rights, and the rule of law. This choice underscores the role of the Constitution as the supreme authority guiding the judiciary, rather than the use of force or punitive measures

   
   

Origins and Historical Context

The concept of Lady Justice has roots in ancient Roman and Greek mythology. The modern figure is believed to originate from Justitia, the Roman goddess of justice, who held scales, a sword, and was often blindfolded. In Greek mythology, Themis, one of the Titans, symbolized divine order and justice, holding similar symbols. The blindfold, a later addition, was reinterpreted during the Enlightenment (17th–18th century) as a symbol of impartiality

Artist and Vision Behind the Statue

The statue was designed by Vinod Goswami, a muralist and professor at the College of Art in Delhi. His vision was to create a figure that would embody both the universal values of justice and the unique identity of India’s legal system. By replacing Western robes with a sari and introducing the Constitution, Goswami has emphasized an Indian perspective on the principles of fairness and equality.

A New Chapter in India’s Judicial Identity

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s initiative to commission this new statue is not just a design change but a reflection of a judicial philosophy that is evolving. Moving beyond symbols inherited from British rule, the statue reflects a justice system firmly rooted in India’s own values, while still resonating with universal ideals.

The unveiling of this statue stands as a symbolic moment, aligning the physical representation of Lady Justice with the cultural and constitutional identity of India. It signals an ongoing journey toward an Indianized legal system, one that respects and integrates its unique social fabric while remaining committed to principles of fairness, impartiality, and adherence to the Constitution.

Reference:

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