In a move reflective of India’s evolving legal identity, the Supreme Court of India has unveiled a redesigned statue of Lady Justice.
This transformation, led by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, marks a departure from traditional Western iconography towards a more indigenously reflective symbol of justice.
What changes were made?
The new statue, placed in the Supreme Court’s judges’ library, no longer features the customary blindfold or wields a sword, elements long associated with justice as impartial and punitive.
Instead, Lady Justice now holds a replica of the Indian Constitution in one hand, symbolizing that justice in India is rooted in constitutional values over mere punishment or retribution. This change suggests that Indian law sees everyone equally, ensuring justice aligned with constitutional principles rather than being ‘blind.’
Chief Justice Chandrachud’s initiative to alter the statue’s design was not just cosmetic but deeply symbolic. This change is part of broader reforms within India’s legal framework, moving away from colonial legacies.
Notably, this coincides with the recent overhaul of several colonial-era laws, including introducing the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita which replaces the Indian Penal Code.