No Formal Policy Yet on Use of AI in Indian Courts, Centre Informs Lok Sabha

No Formal Policy Yet on Use of AI in Indian Courts, Centre Informs Lok Sabha

Artificial Intelligence is increasingly influencing governance and public services across India. However, when it comes to the judicial system, the government has clarified that there is no formal policy yet on the use of AI in courts. Responding in the Lok Sabha, the Centre said that technology is being used cautiously to support judicial efficiency while ensuring fairness and judicial independence.

The statement was made in the Lok Sabha in response to questions regarding how AI is being used in judicial processes and whether any official framework exists to regulate its role in courts.

Government’s Stand on AI in the Judiciary

The Centre informed the Lok Sabha that while technology is being explored to improve judicial efficiency, there is currently no comprehensive or formal policy specifically focused on AI usage in Indian courts.

The government emphasized that any technological intervention in the justice system must respect the independence of the judiciary, ensure fairness, and protect citizens’ rights. As a result, AI tools are being introduced only in a supportive role, rather than as decision makers.

How Technology Is Currently Used in Courts

Although there is no formal AI policy, Indian courts have already begun using technology in limited and controlled ways. These tools are designed to assist judges and court staff, not replace human judgment.

Some existing technology driven initiatives include:

E-courts services for online case status, e-filing, and digital records

Virtual court hearings, especially accelerated after the COVID-19 pandemic

AI-powered transcription tools for converting spoken arguments into text

Legal research assistance tools to help judges quickly access precedents

These systems aim to reduce delays, improve access to justice, and manage the growing backlog of cases.

Why There Is No Formal AI Policy Yet

The absence of a formal AI policy for courts is not accidental. The government and judiciary are aware that legal decision making involves human reasoning, ethical judgment, and interpretation of law, which cannot be fully automated.

Key concerns include:

Court cases often involve sensitive personal and financial information. Any AI system must ensure strict data protection and prevent misuse.

Bias and Fairness

AI systems learn from existing data. If that data contains bias, it can influence outcomes, which is unacceptable in judicial processes.

Accountability

If an AI assisted system makes an error, determining responsibility becomes complex. Courts require clear accountability structures.

Judicial Independence

The judiciary must remain independent of executive or automated influence. Over-reliance on AI could raise constitutional concerns.

Because of these challenges, policymakers are proceeding slowly and carefully.

Role of the Supreme Court and E-Courts Project

The Supreme Court of India has been actively promoting digital transformation through the e-Courts Mission Mode Project, which is focused on improving efficiency through technology rather than automation of judgments.

Under this initiative, AI tools are used primarily for:

Case categorization

Document management

Translation of legal documents

Scheduling and administrative support

Importantly, final decisions remain entirely with judges, ensuring that technology acts only as an aid.

Global Context: How Other Countries Are Approaching AI in Courts

Globally, many countries are experimenting with AI in legal systems, but even internationally, fully automated judicial decisions are rare.

Some nations use AI for risk assessment or case prioritization

Others apply it for legal research and document analysis

Most democracies restrict AI from making binding legal judgments

India’s cautious approach aligns with global best practices, where ethical concerns and human oversight remain central.

Future Possibilities for AI in Indian Courts

While there is no formal policy today, AI is likely to play a larger supportive role in the 

future. Experts believe that with proper safeguards, AI could help:

Reduce case backlogs

Speed up legal research

Improve access to justice in remote areas

Enhance transparency and consistency

However, any expansion will require clear guidelines, legal backing, and ethical frameworks before widespread implementation.

Need for a Balanced and Ethical Framework

The government’s response highlights the importance of balance embracing innovation while protecting constitutional values. Before introducing a formal AI policy for courts, stakeholders must address legal, ethical, and technical challenges.

A future framework would likely involve:

Human oversight at every stage

Transparency in AI tools used

Regular audits for bias and accuracy

Clear legal accountability

Such measures are essential to maintain public trust in the justice system.

While AI adoption in courts is still cautious and policy driven, AI is already helping individuals save time in everyday work.

Simple AI hacks that quietly save hours every day show how small AI uses can improve productivity without complex tools.

Conclusion

The Centre’s statement in the Lok Sabha makes it clear that India is still in the early stages of integrating AI into its judicial system. While technology is being used to enhance efficiency and accessibility, there is no formal policy governing AI use in courts as of now.

The cautious approach reflects the sensitive nature of judicial decision making, where human judgment, fairness, and accountability cannot be compromised. As AI continues to evolve, India may develop a structured framework in the future but for now, technology remains a support tool, not a substitute for justice