Technology must strengthen, not undermine constitutional values in courts: CJI

Chief Justice Surya Kant has warned that India's courts must approach artificial intelligence-driven reforms with careful consideration of constitutional imperatives. While acknowledging technology's potential to address systemic challenges in the justice system, he stressed that innovation cannot come at the expense of fundamental legal principles.

The CJI highlighted that algorithmic tools and digital systems can meaningfully improve judicial efficiency and broaden access to courts for underserved populations. However, he emphasised that these gains must be achieved without compromising the dignity of litigants, principles of equality before law, individual liberty, or the fair treatment that citizens expect from the judiciary.

The remarks reflect growing global concerns about algorithmic bias and the concentration of decision-making power in automated systems. As Indian courts grapple with massive backlogs and resource constraints, technology offers tangible solutions—from case management systems to predictive analytics. Yet the CJI's cautionary stance underscores the judiciary's responsibility to ensure that efficiency gains do not create new forms of injustice.

India's legal community has increasingly recognised the need to modernise court operations while maintaining human oversight and accountability. The CJI's statement suggests the apex court is committed to steering a middle course: harnessing technological innovation to strengthen the justice system while remaining vigilant about protecting constitutional safeguards that underpin democratic governance and rule of law.