Bengaluru, March 21 CJI Justice Surya Kant said on Saturday that Artificial Intelligence (AI) must be integrated into the judicial system in a way that strengthens the institution without undermining its core functions.
He was speaking after inaugurating a one-day seminar on "Artificial Intelligence-Prevention and Resolution of Disputes" at the Karnataka Judicial Academy, organized in collaboration with the UIA India Chapter, the Bar Association of India, and the National Law School of India University, according to an official statement.
"AI should assist in handling large volumes of data and records, identifying patterns, and reducing procedural delays. However, it must not encroach upon the core judicial function of delivering judgments," the CJI was quoted as saying.
The Chief Justice cautioned that allowing AI tools to dominate decision-making could compromise transparency and accountability within the justice delivery system.
He stressed that the final stage of adjudication must remain in human hands.
"The final stage of the judicial process, the pronouncement of judgments, must remain firmly in human hands," he said, adding that judges must rely on their reasoning, experience, and analytical abilities while delivering verdicts.
Emphasizing the role of technology as an enabler, he said AI should function only as a tool.
"AI should function only as a tool or pathway, while the direction must always be determined by human intellect," he said.
Karnataka High Court Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru, speaking on the occasion, raised concerns about the evolving role of AI in the judiciary, questioning whether it would remain an aid to human decision-making or become a substitute that diminishes the role of judges.
He also highlighted both opportunities and risks, noting that AI can enable predictive analysis of disputes and improve efficiency, while AI-supported online dispute resolution platforms can facilitate faster and cost-effective disposal of cases.
Stressing safeguards, he said judicial independence, transparency, and legality must remain paramount, and the use of AI must be guided by clearly defined principles.
Bar Association of India President Prashant Kumar said AI has enabled the rapid translation of court judgments into local languages, improving accessibility for people in rural areas and aiding lawyers in communicating with clients.