A new Banksy mural that appeared on the walls of the Royal Courts of Justice in London has been removed, sparking criticism over freedom of expression and the right to protest. The artwork, first spotted on Monday, depicted a protester lying on the ground clutching a blood-stained placard while a judge, in traditional wig and gown, towered above wielding a gavel. Banksy confirmed authorship via Instagram, posting images of the piece with the caption: “Royal Courts Of Justice. London.”
The mural, painted on the exterior of the Queen’s Building, was swiftly covered up and guarded by security staff before removal work began on Tuesday. HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) defended the decision, stating that the building is legally protected as a listed site and must be preserved in its original condition. A spokesperson explained: “The Royal Courts of Justice is a listed building and HMCTS are obliged to maintain its original character.”
Critics, however, argued the decision symbolically silences dissent. The Good Law Project, writing on X (formerly Twitter), accused the court of “erasing Banksy’s mural just like it’s erasing our right to protest.” They noted that the artwork’s removal came less than 48 hours after its appearance, calling it ironic that a piece depicting a crackdown on protest was itself suppressed.
The controversy comes in the wake of mass demonstrations in London, where nearly 900 people were arrested protesting the UK government’s decision to ban Palestine Action as a terrorist group. The ban makes membership or support of the group a criminal offence and has drawn significant criticism from human rights advocates. Banksy’s politically charged graffiti is often seen as a reflection on government policy, war, and social justice — themes consistent with his latest work.
This is not the first time Banksy’s street art has stirred debate. The artist’s Love Is In The Bin famously shredded itself at auction in 2018 before reselling for £18.5m in 2021. Other works, such as murals removed from public spaces in Lowestoft, have fetched millions privately. Whether the Royal Courts piece will survive removal intact or face destruction remains unclear, but its short-lived existence has already reignited discussion about art, protest, and state authority in the UK.
