In a symbolic departure from tradition, the Supreme Court of India has unveiled a new statue of Lady Justice, the embodiment of law and fairness. This reimagined figure stands apart from her predecessors, notably by the absence of her signature blindfold. The move, initiated by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, aims to convey a powerful message: In India, justice is not blind, but rather sees and acknowledges all equally.

This striking departure from the conventional depiction of Lady Justice, often portrayed with a blindfold to symbolize impartiality, has sparked considerable interest and discussion. The new statue, prominently placed in the judges' library, replaces the blindfold with open eyes, signifying a justice system that is both aware and responsive to the realities of the world.

Constitution replaces sword, ‘Scales’ remain

The transformation goes beyond the removal of the blindfold. In another significant change, the traditional sword, often seen as a symbol of punishment, has been replaced with the Constitution of India. This emphasizes the foundational role of the Constitution in guiding the dispensation of justice in the country.

However, the scales of justice, representing balance and fairness, have been retained. This signifies the court's continued commitment to weighing all sides of an argument impartially before arriving at a judgment.

The new statue reflects a conscious effort to move away from colonial legacies and embrace a more contemporary understanding of justice. It underscores the idea that the law is not blunt to be wielded blindly, but a nuanced system that seeks to understand and address the complexities of each case.

Chief Justice Chandrachud believes that this new representation of Lady Justice will send a clear message to the nation: justice in India is grounded in the Constitution, is cognizant of the social context, and is committed to ensuring equality for all. 

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