India's Lady of Justice New Statue: Removes Blindfold

Historical Significance and Traditional Symbolism

• Lady Justice traditionally depicted with blindfold, scales, and sword
• Blindfold represented: impartiality and equality before law
• Scales: symbolized balance in judgment
• Sword: represented authority and power to enforce justice
• Origins traced back to ancient Greek and Roman iconography
• Symbol became prevalent during Renaissance period

Key Transformations in New Statue

• Commissioned by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud

Removal of traditional blindfold

• • Symbolizes that Indian justice system sees everyone equally
  • Represents awareness and conscious decision-making

Constitution replaces sword in left hand

• • Shifts focus from punitive measures to constitutional values
  • Emphasizes justice delivery through legal framework

Retention of scales in right hand

• • Continues to represent balanced judgment
  • Symbolizes fair weighing of arguments

Cultural and Constitutional Significance

• Located in Supreme Court's Judges' Library
• Represents departure from colonial-era symbolism
• Aligns with broader legal reforms
  • Replacement of Indian Penal Code
  • Introduction of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
• Emphasizes Indian cultural identity
  • Incorporation of Indian attire (saree)
  • Represents modernization of judiciary
• Reinforces constitutional principles
  • Equal justice for all citizens
  • Focus on constitutional values

Vision and Future Impact

• Part of Chief Justice Chandrachud's modernization initiative
• Represents transition from colonial legacy to Indian identity
• Emphasizes that law in India is:
  • Not blind but conscious and aware
  • Based on constitutional principles
  • Equal and fair to all citizens
• Complements other institutional changes
  • New flag and insignia of Supreme Court
  • Commemoration of 75th year of establishment
• Sets precedent for future judicial symbolism
  • Blend of tradition and modern values
  • Focus on constitutional governance