Tezzbuzz Desk– Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has said an important thing regarding the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the judiciary. He clarified that AI can make tasks like legal research, translation of documents and providing case related information easier and faster, but it cannot become a substitute for judicial discretion and human decision.
During a bilateral meeting with Judge Ulrich Hermann, Presiding Judge of the Federal Court of Justice, Karlsruhe, Germany, CJI Surya Kant discussed the role of technology in the justice system. He said AI should be used to reduce repetitive and administrative tasks, and not to decide the final decisions of the court.
Under the draft rules of the AI Committee of the Supreme Court, the use of AI has been allowed in tasks like preparing time-table, transcribing court proceedings and translation of documents. Apart from this, technology can also prove helpful in providing updates related to legal research and cases.
However, clear limits have been placed on the use of AI in some highly sensitive judicial cases. Determining the credibility of a witness, the possibility of absconding of the accused, the risk of re-offending or the eligibility for granting bail cannot be assessed through AI. The final decision in these cases will be taken only on the basis of human judicial discretion.
CJI Surya Kant said that along with the adoption of new technology, accountability and monitoring is also necessary. For this purpose, it has been proposed to create a permanent apex body to monitor the use of AI and the responsibilities related to it.
Stating that judicial independence and people's trust in courts are top priorities, he said technology and administrative reforms can improve access to justice, but cannot replace human thinking, deep understanding of the law and impartial justice.
The CJI also pointed out that initiatives like institutional arbitration centres, Lok Adalats and digital Lok Adalats have made it easier for people to resolve disputes. Especially people living away from big cities are getting help in accessing settlements and justice through these digital mediums. These systems are supported by trained professionals, case managers and secure digital systems.