Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), led by senior lawyer and Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal, has expressed concerns over the recent changes at the Supreme Court, including the introduction of a new emblem and alterations to the Lady Justice statue. The SCBA criticized the lack of consultation, describing the modifications as “radical changes” and raised objections over these decisions being made unilaterally.
The SCBA resolution pointed out that the lawyers’ body, as an equal stakeholder in the justice system, was not informed or consulted before the introduction of these changes. The association also voiced its disagreement with the construction of a proposed museum at the location where they had demanded a Library and Cafe cum Lounge for lawyers.
Lady Justice Statue Controversy
The newly modified statue of Lady Justice has sparked particular criticism. The blindfold, which traditionally symbolizes impartiality, has been removed, and a copy of the Constitution has replaced the sword, which usually represents swift justice. The SCBA questioned these changes, saying they were unaware of the rationale behind this decision.
“We are totally clueless on the rationale behind these changes,” said the SCBA in its resolution, also noting that these alterations were done without any consultation with the Bar.
According to sources, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud views the new design as moving away from the British legacy, emphasizing that justice is not blind in India but sees everyone equally, and thus should be represented differently. The sword was replaced with the Constitution to show that justice is dispensed based on law, not force.
Demand for Library and Cafe Ignored
Aside from the changes in symbolism, the SCBA also criticized the decision to build a museum at a location where they had requested the establishment of a cafe and library for the benefit of lawyers. They urged the court to reconsider this decision, noting that current cafeteria facilities are insufficient to cater to the growing number of lawyers.
