Lady Justice holds Constitution and is no longer blind

Birendra Laishram
I was delighted to learn that the blindfolded eye of Lady Justice had been opened and that she now holds a book on the Indian Constitution in her left hand instead of a sword and the balancing scale in the right hand. I envisioned a time when justice would be accessible without the aggrieved party needing to approach the Court, with Suo Moto cases being taken up. The habitual dishonouring of the Constitution and encroachment on federalism by certain politicians should become a thing of the past, thanks to the Honourable Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India.
The Constitution book symbolizes wisdom, guiding all who seek refuge under its cover. Law should be an instrument of liberty, empowering citizens rather than shackling them in bureaucracy. I imagine Judges reaching out to the marginalized, listening to their silent cries in the halls of justice as in the case of the State of Manipur where the basic principles of federalism is diluted. Accountability from those in power is essential, as governance is a solemn duty. Scrutiny of actions, no matter how powerful, is the essence of democracy and must be ingrained in our leaders’ minds. The fabric of federalism should remain untarnished by partisan ambition.
The fight against the dishonouring of our Constitution requires collective effort. Every citizen and lawyer has a role in safeguarding our rights. May we replace indifference with vibrant engagement, with Courts standing as defenders of Constitutional promise.
As the Honourable Chief Justice leads with integrity, let us cherish our rights and nurture our democratic ethos. We should strive for a judiciary that is fearless and wise, treating justice as a fundamental right, ready to correct the wrongs that threaten our democracy. The perception of law will be changed; it will no longer be viewed as blind and violent. The colonial symbol of Lady Justice has been transformed to feature open eyes and no sword. Traditionally blindfolded to symbolize impartiality is now deemed diluted, the new statue in the Supreme Court Judges’ library acknowledges injustice, emphasizing awareness, insight, and equality for all.
Previously, Lady Justice was depicted with a blindfold, scales for balance, and a sword for authority. The new statue signifies a departure from colonial legacies, reinforcing equal treatment under the law. Honourable Justice DY Chandrachud supports this change, arguing that the statue should embrace the Constitution instead of wielding a sword, highlighting that justice stems from Constitutional principles, not violence. The scales remain vital, representing the careful consideration necessary for true justice.
Key differences between the original and new statues include the removal of the blindfold, indicating that the law actively recognizes equality. Open eyes symbolize awareness in the pursuit of justice, while the statue now holds the Constitution instead of a sword, emphasizing justice rooted in Constitutional values.
(To be contd)