New Delhi, October 11, 2023 – In a groundbreakingdevelopment, the Supreme Court of India has formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) to embark on a transformative journey leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies. This strategic collaboration aims to revolutionize various aspects of the legal domain, including transcription tools, page transcript summarization, translation tools, an exclusive streaming platform for court trials, process automation, and the deployment of large language models.

This milestone initiative follows the visit of the Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, to IIT Madras in July of this year. In a joint statement, both parties expressed their commitment to harnessing the potential of AI and technology to augment the efficiency, accessibility, and capacity building within the legal field.

In a press release issued by the Supreme Court, it was stated, “The collaboration will also emphasize the utilization of AI tools in Capacity Building & Training, the creation of an e-Learning Platform, and the development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skill development courses. This marks a significant leap forward in incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and technology to enhance the legal domain’s functionality.”

The primary objective of this MoU is to facilitate the digital transformation of the Indian judiciary, in alignment with the broader vision of creating a more efficient and technologically advanced legal ecosystem. The overarching aim is to ensure enhanced accessibility to justice for all citizens.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, while addressing the audience during his visit to the 60th Convocation Ceremony of IIT Madras, emphasized the immense potential of AI and its profound impact on society. He also noted that, while AI has the capability to perpetuate discrimination and unfair treatment, its true potential lies in upholding and safeguarding freedoms and human rights. He stressed that technology plays a pivotal role in fortifying societies against future threats that may jeopardize these fundamental liberties.

The Chief Justice has been an ardent advocate for the integration of technology within the judiciary. He has repeatedly emphasized that, in the modern era, “technology is not a matter of choice” but an imperative component of the legal system.

This collaboration between the Supreme Court and IIT Madras is poised to be a game-changer in the legal landscape of India. It signifies a significant step forward in harnessing AI and emerging technologies to bolster the capabilities of the legal sector, ensuring swift and efficient legal processes, promoting training and education, and ultimately enhancing the access to justice for all citizens.

With this partnership, the Indian judiciary is positioning itself at the forefront of global legal systems, embracing technology as an enabler of human rights and freedom, and a shield against future uncertainties. This is undoubtedly a historical moment in the annals of Indian law, where the convergence of legal expertise and cutting-edge technology promises a brighter and more accessible future for justice in the nation.

As both institutions move forward in this landmark collaboration, the Indian legal domain is poised for a significant transformation, with technology and innovation at its core. The implementation of AI and emerging technologies will serve as a beacon for other legal systems across the globe, illuminating the path toward a more efficient, accessible, and technologically advanced future for the administration of justice. The MoUbetween the Supreme Court and IIT Madras marks the dawn of a new era in the legal sector, embodying the spirit of progress, inclusivity, and justice for all.