In a significant reflection on the future of the Indian judicial system, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has observed that technology must evolve from being a mere administrative aid into a constitutional instrument that actively strengthens equality, predictability, and access to justice. The Chief Justice made these remarks while speaking at a judicial conference held in Jaisalmer, underscoring the transformative potential of digital tools in upholding the rule of law.
The remarks come at a time when courts across India are increasingly relying on e-courts, virtual hearings, digitised case management systems, and artificial intelligence-driven tools to tackle pendency and improve efficiency.
Technology as a Constitutional Necessity
CJI Surya Kant noted that technology is no longer confined to improving convenience or speed. Instead, it has become integral to the functioning of constitutional institutions, particularly the judiciary.
“Technology must not remain a mere administrative tool. It must become a constitutional instrument that reinforces equality before law and ensures predictability in judicial outcomes,” the Chief Justice observed.
By framing technology as a constitutional instrument, the CJI placed it within the broader framework of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, which guarantee equality before law and access to justice.
From Digitisation to Judicial Transformation
The Chief Justice cautioned against treating technology as a superficial layer added to traditional systems. Merely digitising files or conducting virtual hearings, he said, does not amount to meaningful reform.
According to CJI Surya Kant, true technological transformation in courts must:
- Reduce structural inequalities
- Improve uniformity in judicial processes
- Enhance transparency and accountability
- Promote predictability in decision-making
He emphasised that technology must help litigants receive timely and consistent justice, irrespective of geography or socio-economic status.
Ensuring Equality Through Technology
One of the central themes of the CJI’s address was equality in access to justice. He acknowledged that while technology can democratise the justice system, it can also deepen disparities if not implemented carefully.
The Chief Justice highlighted concerns such as:
- Digital divide between urban and rural litigants
- Accessibility issues for senior citizens and persons with disabilities
- Language barriers in digital platforms
He stressed that technological reforms must be inclusive by design, ensuring that no section of society is excluded from the justice delivery system.
Predictability and Consistency in Judicial Outcomes
CJI Surya Kant also underlined the importance of predictability in judicial decisions, stating that technology can play a vital role in improving consistency across courts.
Digital tools, data analytics, and structured case-law databases can help:
- Reduce contradictory rulings
- Assist judges in accessing relevant precedents
- Promote uniform application of legal principles
Such predictability, he said, enhances public trust in the judiciary and strengthens the rule of law.
Technology and the Rule of Law
Linking technology with constitutional governance, the Chief Justice observed that the rule of law thrives on certainty, transparency, and accountability—all of which can be reinforced through thoughtful use of technology.
He noted that when deployed correctly, technology can:
- Minimise arbitrariness
- Improve case tracking and disposal rates
- Increase transparency in judicial administration
However, he cautioned that technology must always remain subservient to constitutional values, not replace judicial discretion or human judgment.
Judicial Independence and Ethical Use of Technology
While acknowledging the benefits of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, CJI Surya Kant warned against uncritical adoption.
He emphasised that:
- Judicial decision-making cannot be automated
- Technology should assist judges, not substitute them
- Ethical safeguards are essential to prevent misuse
The Chief Justice reiterated that judicial independence and human reasoning remain at the core of justice delivery, and technological tools must respect these foundational principles.
India’s Ongoing Digital Judicial Reforms
India has made significant strides in judicial digitisation through initiatives such as:
- e-Courts Project
- Virtual court hearings
- National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG)
- E-filing and paperless courts
CJI Surya Kant acknowledged these efforts but stressed that the next phase must focus on quality, inclusivity, and constitutional alignment, rather than mere expansion.
Significance of the Jaisalmer Conference
The judicial conference in Jaisalmer brought together judges and legal stakeholders to deliberate on institutional reforms and future challenges facing the judiciary. The CJI’s remarks set the tone for deeper discussions on how courts can adapt to technological change without compromising constitutional guarantees.
Broader Implications of the CJI’s Remarks
For the Judiciary
- Encourages value-based technological reforms
- Reinforces constitutional accountability in digital initiatives
For Policymakers
- Highlights the need for inclusive digital infrastructure
- Calls for technology aligned with constitutional principles
For Litigants and Lawyers
- Promises improved access and transparency
- Signals future reforms aimed at efficiency and fairness
Conclusion
CJI Surya Kant’s remarks mark an important shift in how technology is conceptualised within India’s justice system. By asserting that technology must function as a constitutional instrument, the Chief Justice has re-centred judicial reform around equality, predictability, and access to justice, rather than efficiency alone.
As Indian courts continue to modernise, this constitutional lens will be crucial in ensuring that technological progress strengthens—not dilutes—the foundational values of the justice system.
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