The unveiling of a new statue of ‘Lady Justice’ in India and its significance

Source: The post the unveiling of a new statue of ‘Lady Justice’ in India and its significance has been created, based on the article “What does the new ‘lady justice’ statue signify?” published in “The Hindu” on 21st October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- Judiciary

Context: The article discusses the unveiling of a new statue of ‘Lady Justice’ in India, which symbolizes a move towards decolonization and represents Indian traditions. It emphasizes urgent reforms needed in the judiciary, including timely appointments and better representation to ensure fair justice.

For detailed information on new statue of Lady Justice read this article here

What is the new ‘Lady Justice’ statue and what does it represent?

1. The new ‘Lady Justice’ statue was unveiled at the Supreme Court of India, symbolizing a shift towards decoloniality.
2. It is dressed in a saree, replacing the western attire of the original statue, aligning with Indian traditions.
3. The statue’s eyes are open, replacing the blindfold, to represent that justice in India is not blind but sees everyone equally.
4. It holds the Indian Constitution in one hand, symbolizing the supremacy of the Constitution in Indian jurisprudence, replacing the traditional sword.
5. The scales of justice are retained, symbolizing impartiality in delivering judgments.
6. This change emphasizes that the law should consider India’s social diversity and the upliftment of underprivileged sections.
7. The move reflects India’s effort to shed colonial symbols and build a justice system more relevant to its own cultural and constitutional values.

What is the historical significance of ‘Lady Justice’?

1. The ‘Lady Justice’ symbol originates from Roman mythology, representing Justitia, the goddess of justice.
2. She is typically depicted with a blindfold, scales, and a sword.
3. The blindfold, added during the Renaissance (14th century), was initially a satire on legal corruption but later symbolized impartiality during the Enlightenment (17th-18th century).
4. The scales signify fairness, requiring courts to weigh both sides of an argument.
5. The sword symbolizes the law’s authority, representing its power to protect or punish.
6. This symbol became prominent in India during British rule and was placed outside courtrooms.

What are the challenges faced by India’s judiciary?

India’s justice system faces challenges like high case pendency, with over five crore cases pending in various courts. The Supreme Court has recognized the problem but says resolving all cases within three years is unrealistic. Around 4.4 crore cases are pending in lower courts, while 60 lakh cases await judgment in High Courts.

For detailed information on Issues faced by the Indian judicial system read this article here

What urgent actions are needed for the judiciary?

1. Appointment of Judges: The process for appointing judges through the collegium is delayed, and the Memorandum of Procedure has not been finalized for eight years.
2. Representation Issues: Backward classes, scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and religious minorities represent less than 25% of higher judiciary, and women less than 15%. Improving representation is needed.
3. Judicial Strength: High Courts operate at 60-70% capacity, contributing to delays. Filling vacancies quickly is crucial to reduce the backlog.
4. Priority Cases: Cases related to constitutional amendments and individual liberty should be prioritized for faster hearings.

Question for practice:

Discuss the symbolism of the new ‘Lady Justice’ statue and the reforms needed in India’s judiciary system.