Unveiling of The Lady Justice Statue: Break away from old traditions

In a symbolic shift, a new statue of the Lady of Justice has been unveiled at the Supreme Court, aturing significant changes to its traditional form.

- DR.S.KRISHNAN & GAURI DWIVEDI

The blindfold, which typically symbolises impartiality, has been removed, and the Indian Constitution has replaced the sword in the statue's left hand. Additionally, the Lady of Justice now dons a saree, replacing the traditional Western robe, reflecting a shift toward Indian cultural identity.

The newly unveiled Lady Justice statue at India's Supreme Court symbolizes a shift from colonial traditions to modern values, emphasizing constitutional justice, awareness, and inclusivity. Traditionally depicted with a blindfold and a sword, the new statue now features 'Lady Justice' with open eyes and the Constitution of India in place of the sword, reflecting the judiciary's commitment to constitutional values and justice that "sees everyone equally".

These changes were initiated under Chief Justice DY Chandrachud's leadership, aiming to modernize the judiciary and move away from colonial legacies. The open-eyed Lady Justice statue at the Supreme Court of India signifies a transformative view of justice's role in society, reflecting modern values and principles.

CHANGING MEANING

The imagery of Lady Justice can be traced back to Greek and Roman mythology. Themis, one of the 12 Titans born to Gaea and Uranus according to works of the Greek poet Hesiod who lived circa 700 BCE, is known as the goddess of justice, wisdom, and good counsel - and is often depicted as a woman holding scales in one hand and a sword in the other. The first Roman emperor Augustus (27 BCE-14 CE) introduced the worship of Justice in the form of a goddess known as Justitia (or Iustitia). Justitia, like Themis, did not wear a blindfold.

LADY JUSTICE IN INDIA