During the British Colonial rule in India, The Customary image of Lady Justice entered to the Indian Judicial System. Lady Justice wear Western Toga or Robe with Scales and sword in her hand, blindfold in her eye’s.
SYMBOLISM OF THE ELEMENT’S OF LADY JUSTICE (OLD):
1. BLINDFOLD:
The blindfold represents Impartiality and objectivity. It means justice should be delivered without any kind of bias and without consideration of wealth, power, race, or status. The decisions should be based on facts and laws, not on appearances.
2. SCALES:
The Lady Justice, holds a pair of scales in one hand, This scales signify the Balance and fairness nature of the weighing of evidence. Lady Justice carefully balances the facts presented by both sides in a case, ensuring fairness and equal consideration. The scales highlight the idea that justice requires the weighing of competing claims to arrive at a balanced judgment. And justice is equal for all, there is no matter who commits the crime.
3. SWORD:
The sword represents Enforcement and authority, which is the power and authority of justice to enforce laws and deliver punishment or consequences. Sword indicates that justice is not merely theoretical but backed by the strength to protect and uphold the law. The sword is often depicted pointing downward, symbolizing a peaceful and measured approach to enforcing Indian justice.
4. TOGA OR ROBES:
The Lady Justice is often portrayed in classical robes or a toga, it representing Respect the importance of law rooted in tradition and moral authority. Toga or Robes reflects the gravity and dignity of the legal system.
5. A WOMAN:
The figure of a woman symbolizes purity, fairness and morality. It is a reminder that While justice is powerful, it should also be nurturing and compassionate and embodying ethical ideals.
CHANGES:
The changes, In The Lady Justice effected under the Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, The blindfold has been removed and a copy of the Constitution has replaced the sword clearly signals that the law in the country is not blind and does not merely symbolise punishment. The Indian Judiciary System treat’s everyone equally, it is not blind at all.
Symbolism of the Elements Of Lady Justice (New):
- No Blindfold (Justice With Open Eyes):
The absence of a blindfold is also called as Justice With Open Eyes, It’s suggests that justice in India is not blind but aware and vigilant and Indian justice is based on conscious awareness rather than being impartial to the realities or injustices of society.
- The Scales:
Lady Justice, holds a pair of scales, these scales signify the Balance and fairness nature of the weighing of evidence. Lady Justice carefully balances the facts presented by both sides in a case, ensuring fairness and equal consideration. The scales highlight the idea that justice requires the weighing of competing claims to arrive at a balanced judgment. And justice is equal for all, there’s no matter who commits the crime.
- Holding A Copy Of The Indian Constitution (The Constitution as a guiding Force):
Replacement of Sword with a copy of the Indian Constitution. Generally, Sword has been associated with violence and disciplinary action, whereas the Constitution is a symbol of rights, equality, and fairness. This change represents that judiciary must act as a protector of constitutional rights rather than functioning enforcer.
- Lady Justice in a Saree (Embracing Indian Cultural Identity):
In The Supreme Court Of India, The statue of Lady Justice in a traditional Saree, Traditional Saree is Replacement of the usual Western robe. Traditional Saree represents a more meaningful association with India, high lighting that the Judiciary is working towards becoming more aligned with the heritage of the country. It’s inclusive and deeply rooted in constitutional values.
Conclusion:
The Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud state that “The Indian Judiciary System treat’s everyone equally, it is not blind at all”.
The Lady Justice, Covered his eye’s by a blindfold, embodies a justice system that is not only impartial but also acutely aware of the complexities of human experiences and societal contexts. In recognizing that justice cannot be blind to the realities of inequality, discrimination, and individual dignity, we affirm that true justice must engage with the lived experiences of all individuals. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud’s rulings reflect this understanding, advocating for a legal framework that prioritizes human rights, equality, and compassion. By embracing this vision, Rooted in constitutional morality, ensuring that justice serves as a beacon of hope and equity for all.
