CJI advocates for ethical artificial intelligence integration in legal research
New Delhi, India - In a keynote address at the Indo-singapore Judicial Conference, Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud emphasised the crucial role of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), in reshaping legal research and the judiciary while stressing the imperative of ethical considerations in its integration.
Chandrachud commenced his address by lauding the conference’s revolutionary focus on technology and its potential to catalyse crucial dialogues at the crossroads of technology and the judiciary. He acknowledged the profound impact of judicial dialogues in fostering cross-cultural exchange and mutual learning among diverse legal systems.
Highlighting the deep-rooted ties between India and Singapore, Chandrachud commended both nations for their commitment to upholding the rule of law and promoting access to justice.
“Judicial dialogues indeed play a vital role in fostering cross-cultural exchange and mutual learning among different legal systems. India and Singapore share not only deep social, cultural, and economic ties but also a commitment to upholding the rule of law and promoting access to justice. As two dynamic and rapidly evolving nations, both India and Singapore recognise the transformative potential of technology in modernising their respective judicial systems,” said the CJI.
He lauded Singapore’s emergence as a global technology and innovation hub, citing its adoption of cutting-edge initiatives such as online dispute resolution platforms and electronic filing systems.
“Singapore has positioned itself as a global hub for technology and innovation. With its strategic location, businessfriendly environment, and robust legal framework, Singapore has attracted top talent and investment in the tech sector... Additionally, the Singapore International Commercial Court leverages technology to facilitate international dispute resolution, offering efficient and cost-effective solutions for resolving cross-border commercial disputes,” he further said.
The CJI praised India’s strides in leveraging technology to modernise its judiciary, particularly through initiatives like the e-courts project.
“India boasts a vibrant tech ecosystem and a rich legal heritage. With a population of over a billion people and a rapidly growing economy, India presents enormous opportunities in adopting technology within the judicial system. The eCourts project, for instance, aims to computerise court processes, digitise case records, and establish online case management systems across all levels of the judiciary. By reducing administrative burdens and automating routine tasks, eCourts enhance the speed and efficiency of legal proceedings, ultimately improving access to justice for all citizens,” Chandrachud said.
The Chief Justice then turned his attention to the transformative potential of AI in legal research, describing it as a ‘game-changer’ that empowers legal professionals with unmatched efficiency and accuracy. He elucidated specific instances where AI, notably CHATGPT, had been utilised in court adjudication, citing examples from Colombia and India.
Similarly, he recounted how the Punjab and Haryana High Court in India sought insights from CHATGPT in a bail petition.