AI CAN BE USED AS TOOL IN JUDICIARY: JUSTICE PRATHIBA M SINGH

Justice Prathiba M. Singh recently emphasized the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing judicial efficiency while affirming that core judicial functions must remain human-centric. Her insights highlight the potential of AI tools for administrative and analytical tasks, such as case management and transcription, which can reduce delays and improve access to justice. However, she cautioned against outsourcing decision-making to machines, stressing the irreplaceable qualities of empathy and moral reasoning that human judges bring to adjudication. Speaking on intellectual property (IP) disputes, Justice Singh highlighted transcription technologies and IP divisions as game-changers in streamlining judicial processes. While embracing AI for procedural improvements, she underscored the importance of ethical considerations to maintain public trust and fairness in the judiciary.

AI CAN BE USED AS TOOL IN JUDICIARY: JUSTICE PRATHIBA M SINGH

INTRODUCTION

The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and the judiciary is a topic of growing relevance. Justice Prathiba M. Singh recently emphasized that while AI can be a powerful tool for enhancing judicial efficiency, the human element in adjudication is indispensable. Her remarks reflect a nuanced understanding of AI’s potential in streamlining judicial processes without compromising the core principles of justice.

As the legal system confronts challenges such as case backlogs and procedural delays, the introduction of AI tools offers hope for better efficiency and transparency. However, this innovation comes with its own set of ethical considerations and limitations, which demand careful deliberation to ensure that technology complements rather than replaces human judgment.

THE ROLE OF AI IN MODERNIZING THE JUDICIARY

Justice Singh acknowledged the increasing role of AI in addressing procedural inefficiencies, particularly in reducing delays that burden courts worldwide. In India, the judicial system faces an overwhelming backlog of cases. To address this, AI-powered tools have been introduced to assist with tasks such as case filing, document management, and legal research. One such initiative is the Supreme Court Portal for Assistance in Court’s Efficiency (SUPACE), which aims to optimize workflows and improve administrative efficiency.

However, Justice Singh made it clear that while AI can support these auxiliary functions, it cannot take over the role of judges in adjudication. She questioned the feasibility of outsourcing judgment-making to machines, asserting, “Would I be comfortable putting in facts of a case and getting a judgment from AI? No. I don’t think our judging and advocacy can be outsourced at all.” This perspective underscores the unique qualities that human judges bring to the table, such as empathy, moral reasoning, and cultural understanding. Adjudication often involves interpreting complex human emotions and ethical dilemmas that cannot be reduced to algorithms.

AI IN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION

Justice Singh’s insights are particularly significant in the context of intellectual property (IP) disputes, an area undergoing rapid evolution due to technological advancements. Speaking on the theme of "Emerging Trends in IP Litigation in Asia," she highlighted the growing reliance on technology in managing complex IP cases.

The Indian judiciary has been proactive in adapting to the dynamic nature of IP disputes. Justice Singh commended the central government for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through robust IP policies. The abolition of the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (IPAB) during the COVID-19 pandemic posed initial challenges. However, she noted that this disruption created opportunities for High Courts to take on a more active role. The establishment of dedicated IP divisions in the Madras and Calcutta High Courts has resulted in significant progress, with efficient case handling and quality judgments. She expressed optimism, saying, “It is only a matter of time before an IP division is set up in the Bombay High Court.”

THE ROLE OF TRANSCRIPTION IN STREAMLINING PROCEEDINGS

Justice Singh highlighted transcription technology as a game-changer in expediting judicial processes. In IP cases, detailed transcriptions of proceedings can significantly reduce the time required to record and review evidence. Justice Singh shared an example where transcripts enabled her to resolve a patent dispute within days.

Despite its potential, transcription software comes with financial challenges, as it can be expensive to implement. Justice Singh suggested that in IP disputes, parties could share the cost of transcription, as it ultimately benefits all stakeholders by speeding up proceedings and reducing litigation expenses. Transcription tools also hold promise in criminal trials, where accurate and timely recording of evidence can help conclude cases faster. Justice Singh emphasized that the judge who records evidence should ideally decide the case, ensuring continuity and a comprehensive understanding of the matter.

ETHICAL CONCERNS AND LIMITATIONS OF AI IN THE JUDICIARY

While the benefits of AI are evident, Justice Singh stressed the importance of ethical considerations in its application. Over-reliance on AI, particularly in decision-making, could lead to significant risks, including ethical dilemmas and loss of public trust in the judiciary. Machines lack the ability to interpret nuanced human emotions, cultural sensitivities, and moral contexts—qualities that are integral to delivering fair judgments. The potential misuse of AI, such as bias in algorithms or errors in data interpretation, underscores the need for strict oversight. Justice Singh advocated for a balanced approach where AI complements human judges but does not replace them.

BROADER IMPLICATIONS FOR JUDICIAL EFFICIENCY

Justice Singh also touched upon procedural reforms that could enhance judicial efficiency without compromising fairness. For instance, she suggested allocating fixed time slots for arguments to encourage discipline among lawyers and avoid prolonged hearings.

Additionally, she highlighted the importance of judges actively recording and reviewing evidence, particularly in technical cases such as patent disputes. This hands-on approach ensures a deeper understanding of the matter and fosters greater confidence in judicial outcomes.

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LESSONS FROM GLOBAL PRACTICES

Globally, legal systems are adopting AI selectively to improve efficiency while maintaining human oversight. In some jurisdictions, AI tools are used for tasks like predicting case outcomes, analysing precedent, and optimizing resource allocation. However, most countries have been cautious in allowing AI to play a role in judicial decision-making, recognizing the risks of delegating such critical responsibilities to machines. Justice Singh’s remarks align with this global trend, emphasizing that AI should enhance the judiciary’s capacity without undermining its fundamental principles.

THE FUTURE OF AI IN THE JUDICIARY

As technology continues to evolve, its integration into the judiciary must be guided by a clear framework that prioritizes ethical considerations and public trust. AI offers immense potential for reducing delays, improving transparency, and enhancing access to justice. However, its application must be carefully calibrated to ensure that human judges remain central to the judicial process.

Justice Singh’s vision reflects a forward-thinking yet cautious approach to judicial innovation. By leveraging AI for administrative and analytical tasks while preserving the human element in decision-making, the judiciary can strike a balance between efficiency and fairness.

CONCLUSION

Justice Prathiba M. Singh’s insights provide valuable guidance on the role of AI in modernizing the judiciary. Her remarks highlight the potential of technology to improve efficiency while emphasizing the irreplaceable qualities of human judgment. In a rapidly changing world, the judiciary must embrace innovation without losing sight of its ethical and humanistic foundations. By adopting AI responsibly, investing in transcription tools, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the judiciary can build a future-ready system that balances technological advancements with the timeless principles of justice. Justice Singh’s perspective serves as a reminder that while technology can transform processes, the essence of justice lies in the empathy, wisdom, and fairness of human judges.