Social media erupts after Supreme Court changes the look of Lady Justice statue

In the latest move to shed away the colonial past of the Indian judiciary, the Supreme Court of India unveiled a new Lady Justice statue in its library. The new figurine had undergone major symbolic changes, including the removal of her blindfold, representing that the law is not blind.

Some welcomed this move, while others criticised it, questioning whether this move represents a break from impartiality.

If you look at the traditional figure of Lady Justice, it is represented with a blindfold, robe and sword. This has its deep roots in ancient Greek and Roman iconography.

In ancient Greece, the goddess Themis was often portrayed holding scales and a sword, symbolising divine law and justice. Similarly, in Roman mythology, the figurine of Lady Justice was inspired by Justitia, their goddess of justice.

In India, the same statute is used to symbolise equality before the law, ensuring that justice is served without any partiality or prejudice to wealth, status or influence. It is from the blindfold that Indian courts got the saying “Law is blind,” when it comes to prejudices.

The sword represents the authority of the law and its double edge signifies that justice is capable of both protecting and punishing. The scales represented balance and fairness which emphasise that courts weigh both sides of an argument before delivering a judgment.

It was during the British Colonial rule of India that the Lady Justice became part of the Indian Judicial system. Since then, it has become an indispensable symbol of the judicial system.

Now, a major change was made to this symbol by removing the blindfold and also replacing the sword with the Indian Constitution. The Lady Justice statue has also seen a transformation in its attire- from western robes to traditional Indian sarees.

The new statue also drew mixed reactions on social media.

One user wrote, “The thing Lady Justice needs the most is a watch,” likely referring to delays in the Indian judicial system. 

Another user pointed out that removing the blindfold reflected “tremendous self-awareness,” adding that the law in India is “anything but impartial.”

Another user argued,”It was never blind…. It meant law will not be bias on any caste, religion and gender before serving justice.”

Some even gave suggestions like, “Put blindfold on judge eyes for fair judgment.”

Many were disappointed by the mere optics,”Yet law has failed to provide justice in many cases going on from the past months and years. Blindfolded or not, hardly matters!”

(With inputs from agencies)