In a bold move to revolutionize the judicial system, Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, has advocated for the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Indian courts. Speaking at an event in Kolkata, Justice Chandrachud expressed his support for AI while emphasizing the need for caution and a measured approach.
“As someone who has spent 34 years in the art and science of judging, I don’t want a machine-operated robot to write my judgment,” Justice Chandrachud stated. “The machine-operated robot may give a more mathematically correct answer in a claim for motor accident compensation. I may make multiplication errors, but the machine-operated robot cannot have that sense of empathy or compassion which a judge has.”
While acknowledging the limitations and biases of AI, Justice Chandrachud also highlighted its potential benefits, especially in addressing the inequalities in the judicial system. He pointed out that cases of high value often take precedence in the courts, often leaving the cases of poorer citizens to languish. This disparity led to the idea of introducing AI for the verification and categorization of cases, ultimately fast-tracking the judicial process.
“Sometimes cases of very high value are filed in our registries. The more resourced citizens are able to ensure that their cases are fast-tracked. While the cases of poorer citizens take a back seat,” Justice Chandrachud explained. “Then we thought, why not introduce AI for the verification of cases? AI can do that. We are going to unveil that in the Supreme Court very shortly.”
The Chief Justice’s plan involves using AI to categorize cases and create a roster, making the process more efficient and equitable. This innovation could potentially alleviate the burden on judges, allowing them to focus on the more critical aspects of their work. It is important to note that Justice Chandrachud’s vision is not to replace judges with AI, but rather to utilize AI as a tool to augment and expedite the judicial process.
While AI has made significant strides in various fields, its integration into the legal system brings forth new challenges and ethical considerations. The biases ingrained in AI algorithms reflect the biases of those who design and train them. Therefore, it is crucial to develop AI systems that are not only accurate but also fair and unbiased.
Justice Chandrachud’s endorsement of AI showcases a progressive mindset towards leveraging technology for the betterment of society. However, it is essential to proceed with caution and to ensure a thorough examination of the implications and ramifications of such a transformation. As technology continues to advance, the judiciary must adapt to keep pace and uphold justice for all.
In conclusion, Justice Chandrachud’s endorsement of AI in the judicial system marks a significant step towards modernization. By implementing AI tools for case verification and categorization, the Indian courts aim to address the disparities in case handling and improve efficiency. However, it is crucial to consider the ethical and societal implications of this adoption and work towards developing unbiased AI systems. As we enter a new era of technology, the courtrooms of the future may look very different, but the fundamental principles of justice must remain intact.
Use the share button below if you liked it.