GUWAHATI: The Supreme Court of India unveiled a new ‘Lady Justice’ statue on October 17, 2024.
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Marking a symbolic shift, the new design focuses on promoting equality, as it aims to ensure all citizens are seen and treated equally by the justice system.
It features several notable changes from its predecessor, as its most striking difference leans towards its eyes. In the earlier statue, the lady was blindfolded, but in the new version, her blinds have been taken off. Additionally, while the old statue depicted Lady Justice holding a sword, the new version carries the Indian Constitution, highlighting the centrality of the nation’s legal document.
A third significant change is the statue’s attire. While the old statue wore a Western-style robe, the new statue is draped in a traditional Indian saree, reflecting Indian cultural values. Jewellery and a head crown also adorns the new Lady Justice, potentially symbolising Bharat Mata or the divine feminine.
This makeover comes as part of a broader effort to decolonize India's legal framework, according to Chief Justice DY Chandrachud. The changes signify a shift away from colonial symbols toward those rooted in Indian tradition and ethos.
