Supreme Court reveals new Lady Justice Statue with open eyes to reflect ‘Law is not blind’

The Supreme Court of India has revealed a new Lady Justice statue, symbolizing that the law in India is neither blind nor driven by force.

Unlike the traditional blindfolded figure, this new depiction features open eyes and holds the Constitution instead of a sword, signaling a more thoughtful and inclusive approach to justice.

Commissioned under the guidance of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, the statue represents a departure from the colonial-era symbol of Lady Justice, which was typically portrayed wearing a blindfold and holding scales and a sword.

The blindfold had historically symbolized impartiality in the legal system, suggesting that justice should be delivered without regard to wealth, power, or influence.

The sword represented the power and authority of the law, while the scales signified balance and fairness in judgments.

The redesigned statue, now prominently placed in the Supreme Court’s judges' library, aims to reflect a new era for India’s judiciary.

According to sources close to the Chief Justice, the removal of the blindfold and the inclusion of the Constitution in Lady Justice's hand are meant to convey that justice in India is grounded in constitutional principles and that the law does not operate in isolation from reality.

"The Chief Justice wanted to send a clear message that courts dispense justice in accordance with the Constitution, not with punitive force," a source revealed.

The sword, traditionally a symbol of power and violence, was replaced by the Constitution to emphasize that justice is delivered based on the rule of law.

However, the scales of justice remain in the statue to remind the public that courts continue to carefully weigh all arguments and evidence before reaching a verdict.

This new representation underscores the idea that, in modern India, the law is aware, just, and rooted in constitutional values, ensuring fairness and equality for all.