As India builds towards establishing itself as a global superpower by 2047, a strong focus has been drawn on technology as a prime driver for almost all sectors, from agriculture and education to health and judiciary. Now, with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital courts, the time has come to take a deeper look into how tech can be leveraged to not just expedite judicial processes but also uphold the inherent principles of the rule of law.
A recent report titled ‘India’s Journey towards Leadership by 2047,’ published by Primus Partners, offers a comprehensive analysis of India’s potential evolution into a developed nation over the next few decades. Based on insights from 33 experts and voices representing diverse demographics across 25 states, gathered through a series of 2,047 interviews, the report presents a multifaceted perspective marked by optimism, ambition, and caution amidst India’s socio-economic progress.
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One notable expert highlighted in the report is Gopal Jain, a senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India. Jain emphasises the importance of integrating Digital Jurisprudence with the Rule of Law for the prompt delivery of justice. He underscores how technology has reshaped various aspects of society, including the legal field, suggesting that leveraging technology while upholding the principles of the rule of law can significantly expedite the judicial process.
The principle of ‘rule of law’ is deeply intertwined with constitutionalism, which serves to limit government authority and safeguard the rights of citizens. Jain cited key legal precedents, such as the Keshavananda Bharati case of 1973 and the Central Coal Fields case of 1980, which have reinforced the significance of the rule of law in ensuring justice and protecting fundamental rights. Despite these advancements, accessibility to justice remains a challenge, often marginalising vulnerable voices.
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A Transformative Shift
To address these challenges, the Indian judicial system has undergone a transformative shift, embracing technology to enhance inclusivity and equality in accessing justice. The integration of online resources, AI-powered legal assistance, and eCourt systems has revolutionised the legal landscape, facilitating faster and more transparent dispute resolution. This integration has not only improved public sector accountability but has also ushered in an era of transparent governance.
For instance, the online publication of court cases has made legal proceedings more affordable, accessible, and transparent, significantly reducing delays in addressing urgent legal matters, says Jain. The widespread adoption of technology, evident in initiatives like ‘Digital India,’ has further accelerated this transition, with the COVID-19 pandemic highlighting the indispensability and effectiveness of technological solutions in the Indian judiciary.