JUSTICE LADY

TAG: GS-2: POLITY & SOCIAL JUSTICE

THE CONTEXT:

Recently, the Supreme Court of India unveiled a new statue of a woman justice.

EXPLANATION:

What are the Origins and Symbolism of Lady Justice in Legal Systems? 

• Justice Lady was first introduced by Roman Emperor Augustus, who considered justice an important virtue to uphold.

• Justitia, the goddess of Justice in Roman mythology, is believed to be the allegorical personification of the law and moral force that drives society.
• Associated with Christian values during the mediaeval period.
• Became more prevalent in art and architecture during the Renaissance.
• It was during British rule, Lady Justice became a prominent symbol in India.

The Goddess figure evolved into an allegory (symbolic representation) of justice in legal systems: 

• Traditional Symbols and Their Meanings:
  • Scales: Represent weighing evidence from both parties in disputes.
  • Blindfold:Was added much later, in the 16th century
    • Interestingly, the blindfold was initially meant as satire
    • Later, it was reinterpreted to symbolize impartiality
  • Toga:Represents the philosophical attitude of the Greco-Roman world
  • Sword: Symbolizes authority and power (though some modern interpretations, like India’s new statue, view it as representing violence)
• The statue has evolved over time with different cultures adapting its symbolism

What were the Major Changes Made to Justice Lady? 

• Removal of Blindfold: 
  • The traditional blindfold has been removed
  • This change symbolizes that “law is not blind” but rather “sees everyone equally”
  • Represents a shift from the colonial concept that justice should be blind
• Replacement of Sword: 
  • The traditional sword has been removed.
  • Replaced with the Indian Constitution.
  • This change was made because:  
    • The sword was seen as a symbol of violence
    • Constitution represents justice through legal framework rather than punishment
    • Emphasizes constitutional values over punitive measures
  • Cultural Adaptation: 
    • The statue now wears a saree instead of traditional Western attire
    • This represents India’s cultural identity
    • Installed in the Supreme Court library
  • Retained Elements: 
    • The scales remain unchanged in the right hand
      • Continue to symbolize balance and fairness in justice
      • Represent the weighing of evidence from both sides

What is the Purpose of the Changes to the Lady Justice Statue? 

• Moving Away from Colonial Legacy: 
  • Breaking free from British-era symbols and traditions
  • Creating a distinctly Indian identity in the legal system
  • Part of broader reforms to move away from colonial-era laws and symbols
• Changing the Perception of Justice: 
  • Emphasizing that “law is not blind” but “sees everyone equally”
  • Shifting from punitive justice to constitutional justice
  • Showing that courts make conscious, informed decisions rather than blind ones
• Modernizing Legal Symbolism: 
  • Aligning with contemporary interpretations of justice
  • Making justice symbols more relevant to modern India
  • Reflecting the evolution of India’s legal framework
  • Emphasizing Constitutional Values:
• Replacing the sword with the Constitution shows:  
  • Focus on constitutional principles over punishment
  • Courts deliver justice based on constitutional laws
  • Importance of legal framework in delivering justice
• Cultural Representation: 
  • Incorporating Indian elements (like the saree) shows:  
    • Recognition of India’s cultural identity
    • Moving away from Western symbolism
    • Creating a more relatable symbol for Indian citizens

How do Constitutional Values Shape Modern Indian Identity and Legal Philosophy? 

• Focus on Constitutional Values: 
  • Constitution replaces sword as symbol of authority
  • Justice based on constitutional principles rather than punishment
  • Emphasis on equality and fairness under law
• Modern Identity: 
  • Moving away from colonial-era symbols and laws
  • Developing distinctly Indian legal framework
  • Incorporating Indian cultural elements
• Changed Philosophy: 
  • Justice that “sees everyone equally” rather than “blind justice”
  • Balance between rights and responsibilities
  • Transparent and conscious decision-making
• Core Principles: 
  • Equal treatment for all citizens
  • Justice guided by Constitution
  • Fairness in legal proceedings
  • Blend of modern approach with Indian values

key differences between the old and new statues:

Overall, the open-eyed Lady Justice represents an enlightened approach to justice in India that is vigilant, inclusive, and deeply rooted in constitutional principles rather than old-fashioned ideas about blind impartiality.

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-law/explained-story-of-lady-justice-from-greek-origins-to-today-9627566/